Ginger Cookies Recipe: How to Make Easy and Flavorful Ginger Cookies

Ginger cookies are warm, spiced, and perfectly chewy. They bring together the bold flavors of ground ginger, cinnamon, and molasses into one comforting bite. These cookies are a holiday staple, but they’re so delicious that you’ll want to make them year-round. Whether you enjoy them with tea, pack them in lunchboxes, or serve them at parties, these ginger cookies are sure to please.

This easy ginger cookie recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and comes together in just a few steps. You’ll get soft, chewy cookies with just the right amount of spice and sweetness.

Why Ginger Cookies Are Always a Hit

Ginger cookies are known for their rich, warm flavor and irresistible texture. Unlike crispy gingersnaps, this recipe yields a soft and chewy cookie with slightly crisp edges. The molasses gives them a deep sweetness, while the spices make them bold and fragrant.

They’re:

• Easy to make from scratch
• Full of seasonal spices
• Perfect for holidays or everyday snacking
• Freezer-friendly and ideal for gifting

If you love cozy spices and simple bakes, this is a cookie recipe worth trying.

Ingredients for Ginger Cookies

You’ll find everything you need for this recipe in a standard baking pantry. The combination of brown sugar and molasses gives these cookies their signature taste and softness.

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons baking soda

Wet Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Rolling:

• 2 tablespoons white sugar (for coating)

You can adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Add nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth, or reduce the cloves if you prefer a milder flavor.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Ginger Cookies

This dough comes together quickly, and chilling is optional, though it helps with shaping and prevents spreading too much.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, and all the spices. Whisk well to combine and set aside.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the brown sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2 to 3 minutes with a hand mixer or stand mixer.

Step 4: Add Egg, Molasses, and Vanilla

Add the egg to the butter mixture and beat until smooth. Mix in the molasses and vanilla extract until fully combined. The batter will turn a rich brown color.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix on low speed or with a spatula until a thick, sticky dough forms. If it’s too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for 20 to 30 minutes.

Step 6: Shape and Roll

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in white sugar for a sparkly finish. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 9 to 11 minutes or until the edges are set and the tops start to crack. Don’t overbake if you want soft and chewy centers. Let the cookies cool on the tray for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack.

Storage and Freezing Tips

Store cooled ginger cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They stay soft and flavorful even after a couple of days.

To freeze, place unbaked dough balls on a tray and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen by adding an extra minute to the baking time.

Recipe Variations You Can Try

• Spiced Chocolate Ginger Cookies: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the dough
• Crispy Version: Flatten the dough balls slightly before baking for a thinner, crispier cookie
• Lemon Glaze: Drizzle cooled cookies with a simple lemon icing for a sweet-tart twist
• Vegan Ginger Cookies: Use dairy-free butter and a flax egg (1 tbsp flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) in place of the egg

These cookies are flexible and easy to personalize depending on your mood or the season.

Perfect for Holidays and Gifting

Ginger cookies are a classic addition to holiday cookie boxes and dessert trays. Their rustic cracked tops and sugary coating make them festive without needing decoration. Wrap them in parchment or place in jars for a thoughtful homemade gift.

They also make a great edible favor for weddings, holiday parties, or bake sales. Their bold flavor stands out, and they’re loved by all age groups.

A Cookie That Feels Like a Hug

There’s something timeless about ginger cookies. They’re warm, comforting, and full of rich flavors that make you slow down and enjoy the moment. With this easy recipe, you can bring that homemade joy to your kitchen any day of the year.