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Classic Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men (Perfect for Decorating!)
Stephanie Moore

Classic Soft & Chewy Gingerbread Men

Capture the magic of the holiday season with these perfect gingerbread men. Designed to hold their shape for intricate decorating while remaining soft and chewy, these cookies offer a delightful balance of robust, earthy molasses and aromatic spices. Perfect for baking with family, this recipe yields tender, melt-in-your-mouth treats that are sure to become a cherished annual tradition.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 20 servings
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 160
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsulphured molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fully incorporated.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a cohesive dough forms.
  5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  7. Roll the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness and cut into gingerbread men shapes.
  8. Place on the baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just set but the centers remain soft.
  9. Remove from oven and let cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Ensure your molasses is unsulphured for the best flavor profile. If the molasses is too thick, warm the jar in a bowl of hot water before measuring. Do not over-bake; the cookies should be removed while the centers still feel slightly soft to ensure they stay chewy once cooled.