Nothing says the holidays like the warm smell of gingerbread baking in the oven. This classic gingerbread recipe is perfect for making houses, cookies, or festive decorations. It is sturdy enough to hold its shape but still smells and tastes like the season.
Classic Gingerbread Recipe
This recipe is designed for gingerbread houses, but you can also cut out cookies if you prefer. If you want softer cookies for eating, roll the dough a little thicker and bake slightly less.
Ingredients
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1 cup molasses
1 large egg
5 cups all purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon salt
Instructions
In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the molasses and egg until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a stiff dough forms.
Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour. Chilled dough is easier to roll and helps the shapes stay sharp.
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use templates or cookie cutters to cut out your shapes.
Transfer the pieces to the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between them.
Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the pieces are firm and just beginning to darken around the edges.
While the gingerbread is still warm, trim edges with a sharp knife if needed to keep the pieces straight.
Let the gingerbread cool completely on a wire rack before decorating or assembling.
Simple Royal Icing for Assembly
Ingredients
3 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons meringue powder
5 to 6 tablespoons warm water
Instructions
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until thick and smooth.
Use immediately for assembling gingerbread houses or decorating cookies. Cover with a damp cloth when not in use to prevent drying.
Tips for Success
Roll the dough evenly so all pieces bake at the same rate.
Use thick royal icing for building and slightly thinner icing for decorative details.
Let assembled houses dry completely before moving or displaying.
This gingerbread recipe is a holiday classic that brings together baking, creativity, and a little bit of patience. Whether you are building a cozy cottage or simply cutting out cookies, it is a recipe worth keeping in your seasonal rotation.
