Classic Spiced Gingerbread Men

I first baked gingerbread men one frosty December evening, the warm spices filling my kitchen and promising holiday cheer even before the cookies were out of the oven

I remember the time unexpected guests stopped by and these gingerbread men became the centerpiece of our impromptu celebration, their sweet aroma inviting everyone in

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: This forms the sturdy base that gives the cookies their perfect texture
• Ground ginger: Adds that signature spicy warmth that makes gingerbread so special
• Molasses: Gives a rich depth and dark color, so don&t skip on this one
• Butter: Softened for easy mixing and a tender crumb
• Royal icing: For decorating – dried hard to keep your designs neat

Instructions

Prep the dry spices and flour:

Whisk together the dry ingredients - you&ll smell the ginger and cinnamon bloom, a promise of the flavor to come

Mix the wet ingredients:

Beat the butter and sugar until fluffy like sweet clouds then add egg, molasses, and vanilla – this combo creates that deep, comforting scent in your kitchen

Combine and chill:

Bring the dry into the wet, stirring till soft dough forms. Wrap and chill patiently, the rest will be worth it

Shape your men:

Roll out dough, use your cookie cutter, and watch your little ginger friends take shape!

Bake and cool:

Soon your kitchen is filled with warm spice aromas, bake for just the right time so edges set but centers stay tender

Decorate with joy:

Let your creativity shine with icing and candies, this is where your gingerbread men come alive

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This recipe quickly became more than just cookies; it was a tradition marking the start of holiday gatherings, each batch a new memory wrapped in sweet spice

Keeping It Fresh

Store your gingerbread men in an airtight container to preserve the snap and prevent the icing from softening — they stay perfect for days if handled right

When You're Missing Something

If you run out of molasses, dark corn syrup can step in a pinch, but the flavor will be a touch lighter, so consider adding a bit more ground ginger for balance

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Serving these with a cup of hot mulled cider or spiced tea adds an extra layer of comfort to any cold day

• Don&t forget a little wax paper between stacked cookies to keep icing intact
• Try gifting a small box of these with a handwritten note for a personal touch
• Keep some extra royal icing on hand for last minute repairs or extra decorating fun

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Thanks for baking along; may your kitchen always be filled with warmth and sweetness like these gingerbread men

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ What spices give the gingerbread men their flavor?

The blend includes ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, providing warm, aromatic notes characteristic of spiced baked goods.

→ How can I make the cookies softer or crispier?

Baking a minute less results in softer cookies, while an extra minute in the oven creates a crisper texture.

→ Why is chilling the dough important?

Chilling firms the dough for easier rolling and cutting, and helps maintain cookie shape during baking.

→ Can I decorate the gingerbread men?

Yes, decorating with royal icing and assorted candies or sprinkles is encouraged to add festive detail and texture.

→ What alternatives exist for decorating if I don't have royal icing?

Store-bought royal icing or simple melted chocolate can be used as decoration, along with candies or sprinkles.