Name: Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies: Your New Christmas Cookie Joy
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Molasses (Use Grandma's brand for best results.); 1/2 cup Butter Flavored Shortening (Can substitute with butter, but will yield dryer cookies.); 3/4 cup Sugar; 1 large Egg; 1 teaspoon Vanilla; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/4 cup Hot Water; 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cloves; 1 teaspoon Cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 tablespoon Ground Ginger (Key flavor ingredient.); 2 cups Flour; 1 cup Powdered Sugar; 2 tablespoons Milk (Combine for a glossy finish.)

As the scent of ginger and warm spices fills the air, it’s hard not to feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. It takes me back to cozy kitchens bustling with holiday cheer, where gingerbread man cookies were a cherished tradition. These Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies, my favorite Christmas cookie, are not just a treat; they envelop you in a comforting hug of flavor and texture. With their thick, chewy goodness and sweet glaze, they are effortlessly delightful, perfect for holiday gatherings or simply savoring on a quiet evening at home. Bonus? They can easily be made gluten-free, so everyone can join in the festive fun. Are you ready to whip up a batch that will become a cherished memory in your own kitchen?

What Makes These Cookies Special?

Unforgettable Flavor: The rich blend of molasses and spices create a distinctive gingerbread taste that will transport you back to your favorite holiday moments.

Customizable Delight: Whether you’re a traditionalist or seeking something new, you can easily adapt the recipe with gluten-free flour or by experimenting with spices like nutmeg.

Simple Preparation: With just a few steps and common ingredients, you can bake up a batch without any fuss—perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike!

Perfect for Sharing: The charming gingerbread man shape and glossy glaze make these cookies ideal for holiday gifting or as show-stoppers on cookie trays.

Long-Lasting Joy: Store them easily for up to a month or freeze them for later; they taste just as delightful months down the line, making every day a holiday celebration!

If you love festive sweets, don’t miss out on our delightful Christmas Cookie Dip for another sweet addition to your holiday spread.

Christmas Cookie Ingredients

For the Cookies

Molasses – Adds deep sweetness and moisture; Use Grandma’s brand for best results.
Butter Flavored Shortening – Provides richness and contributes to chewiness; Can substitute with butter, but will yield dryer cookies.
Sugar – Sweetens and helps with texture.
Egg – Binds the ingredients and aids in structure.
Vanilla – Enhances flavor profile.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, providing lift.
Hot Water – Activates baking soda for better rise.
Ground Cloves – Adds warm spice flavor.
Cinnamon – Provides aromatic sweetness.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor.
Ground Ginger – Key flavor ingredient, integral to gingerbread.
Flour – Primary structure component of the cookies.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Main ingredient for the glaze.
Milk – Used to create a smooth glaze consistency; Combine for a glossy finish that makes these cookies shine like your favorite Christmas treats!

With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating the most delightful Christmas cookie experience with these chewy gingerbread man cookies!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Start by gathering your cookie sheets and cooling racks, ensuring a clean and organized space. Preheat your oven to 375°F, allowing it to reach the right temperature as you prepare the cookie dough. This will ensure your Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies bake evenly and get that perfect chewy texture.

Step 2: Make the Glaze
In a medium bowl, mix together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until you achieve a smooth and glossy glaze. Set it aside for now, as this sweet finish will soon be drizzled over your delicious gingerbread men. The glaze should be thick enough to cling to the cookies but smooth enough to spread easily.

Step 3: Combine Molasses and Shortening
In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the molasses and butter-flavored shortening. Stir continuously until the mixture is well combined and sticky, which should take about 5 minutes. This rich, gooey base is essential for achieving the deep flavor and moisture your Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies need.

Step 4: Cream Sugar, Egg, and Vanilla
Using a standing mixer, cream together the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and lightened in color—approximately 3 minutes. This step creates a fluffy texture that will help the cookies hold their shape. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.

Step 5: Dissolve Baking Soda in Hot Water
In a separate bowl, dissolve the baking soda in about 1/4 cup of hot water. This activates the baking soda, ensuring that your cookies rise beautifully as they bake. Once dissolved, carefully pour this mixture into the creamed sugar and egg mixture, mixing until fully combined to add that delightful lift.

Step 6: Incorporate Spices and Flour
Gradually add the ground cloves, cinnamon, salt, and ground ginger into the creamed mixture, followed by the warm molasses mixture. Gradually stir in the flour until your dough comes together into a slightly sticky consistency. This is where your Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies start to gain their iconic flavor and texture.

Step 7: Roll Out Dough
Flour your working surface lightly to prevent sticking. Roll the dough out to a thickness of about ½ inch. Use cookie cutters to shape your gingerbread men, ensuring each cut-out is vibrant and full of joy. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little flour on top and your rolling pin to assist.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Place your cut-out cookies on the prepared cookie sheets, giving them adequate space to spread. Bake in the preheated oven for 5-10 minutes, checking for a soft yet firm texture. The edges should be set, and the tops may look slightly puffed. Remove them from the oven once they’re delicately golden for that cheery chewiness.

Step 9: Glaze the Cookies
Immediately dunk each warm cookie into the prepared glaze, allowing it to coat the top layer fully. Rotate as needed to avoid sticking and get an even finish. This will add a delightful sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the warm spices in your Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies.

Step 10: Cool on Racks
Transfer the glazed cookies to your cooling racks and let them cool completely, allowing the glaze to set. This process should take around 30 minutes. The finished cookies will feature a glossy topping that adds charm, making them ready to devour or gift just in time for the holiday season!

What to Serve with Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies?

Indulging in these delightful cookies opens the door to a wonderful holiday feast, perfectly complemented by comforting sides and cheerful beverages.

Creamy Hot Cocoa: The rich chocolate pairs perfectly with the warm spices of the cookies, creating a nostalgic holiday vibe.
Spiced Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced cider enhances the flavors of ginger and cinnamon in the cookies, making every sip feel festive.
Whipped Cream: A dollop on the side adds a creamy, dreamily sweet texture contrasting with the chewy cookie, making each bite even more indulgent.
Molasses Cake: For those who adore gingerbread, serving alongside a moist molasses cake will amplify the same rich flavors in a delightful new way.
Pecan Pie: The nuttiness of this classic dessert complements the spicy notes of the cookies, striking a balance between crunch and chewiness.
Chilled Milk: Simple yet classic, a glass of cold milk helps to soften the cookies even more, enhancing the feeling of a cozy, homey snack.
Ginger Tea: A warm cup of ginger tea harmonizes with the gingerbread man cookies, evoking a soothing and aromatic experience as you savor each bite.

This array of pairings, with diverse textures and flavors, will ensure your holiday gatherings are filled with joy and warmth, making your Christmas cookie experience truly memorable.

Christmas Cookie Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to get creative, because these cookies are just waiting for your delicious personal touch!

Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with GF Jules flour 1:1 for a delightful gluten-free version that everyone can enjoy.
Spice it Up: Mix in nutmeg or allspice along with the traditional spices for an adventurous spin on the classic flavors.
Chocolate Twist: Add mini chocolate chips to the dough for an extra sweet surprise with every chewy bite.
Icing Swirl: Instead of a glaze, pipe royal icing designs on your cookies for a festive and colorful decoration.
Add Nuts: Toss in some finely chopped walnuts or pecans to give your cookies a crunchy texture that complements the softness.
Zesty Kick: Incorporate a splash of orange or lemon zest into the dough for a refreshing citrus twist that brightens up each bite.
Maple Glaze: Replace the vanilla in your glaze with maple extract to create a rich, unique flavor that pairs perfectly with spiced cookies.
Stuffed Treats: Roll out the dough to fill with a dollop of your favorite jam or Nutella before sealing— bite into a flavorful surprise!

If you’re looking for more ideas, don’t forget to try our delightful Christmas Cookie Dip for a unique way to enjoy those holiday flavors! Happy baking!

Storage Tips for Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

Room Temperature: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month. This helps maintain their chewy texture and delightful flavor.
Fridge: If you live in a particularly warm climate, you can refrigerate them to prolong freshness for up to 2 weeks, ensuring they remain covered to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Wrap the cookies tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed freezer bag for up to 2 months. They still taste great after a year in the freezer, making these Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies perfect for festive snacking anytime.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, simply pop the cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until they’re nice and soft, just like when they first came out of the oven!

Make Ahead Options

These Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 48 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain that delightful, chewy texture. Additionally, you can bake and glaze the cookies in advance, storing them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain their quality, be sure to separate layers with parchment paper. When ready to serve, warm them gently in the oven for a few minutes—it will feel like they just came out of the oven! Enjoy the joy of freshly baked gingerbread men without the fuss on busy days.

Expert Tips for Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies

Warm Dough Advantage: Ensure your dough is warm while rolling; if it cools down, simply give it a quick pop in the microwave for a few seconds.
Flour-Free Stickiness: Avoid the temptation to add extra flour to the dough; keep it manageable by using cooking spray on your countertop and rolling pin.
Immediate Glazing: Dunk your cookies in glaze straight from the oven for the best results; rotate them gently to prevent sticking while they dry.
Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version of these beloved Christmas cookies, substitute standard flour with GF Jules flour in a 1:1 ratio.
Baking Times Vary: Keep an eye on baking times; depending on cookie sizes, they might need 5-10 minutes—remove them as soon as they’re set but still soft for that chewy texture.

Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies Recipe FAQs

What type of molasses should I use for the best flavor?
For the most delightful results, I recommend using Grandma’s brand molasses. It adds a rich, deep sweetness that elevates the flavor of your cookies. If you can’t find it, look for unsulfured light molasses as an alternative, but avoid blackstrap molasses, as it can be too bitter for these sweet treats.

How should I store my Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies?
Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month. This way, they maintain their delicious chewiness and festive flavor. If you live in a warm climate, refrigerate them instead to keep them fresh for up to 2 weeks, just ensure they are well-covered to prevent drying out.

Can I freeze these cookies, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies, wrap each cookie tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a sealed freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. If you’re planning to keep them even longer, they still taste great up to a year in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, just warm them in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked feel!

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find your cookie dough is too sticky to roll out, don’t worry! Instead of adding extra flour—which can make your cookies dry—use a light coating of cooking spray on your countertop and rolling pin. This will help manage the stickiness and allow you to roll it out without compromising the texture of your cookies.

Can my pets eat these cookies?
No, I wouldn’t recommend giving these cookies to pets, especially due to the sugar and potential allergens. Chocolate, which is often found in holiday snacks, is toxic to them too. It’s always best to keep these delightful treats for yourself and your loved ones!

Is there a gluten-free version of this recipe?
Yes! For a gluten-free option, simply substitute regular flour with GF Jules flour in a 1:1 ratio. This will allow everyone to enjoy these lovely Chewy Gingerbread Man Cookies without missing out on the delicious flavors and textures. Enjoy baking!