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Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing

Delightful and festive gingerbread cookies decorated with royal icing, perfect for holiday celebrations.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 24 cookies
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Gingerbread Cookies
  • 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour the foundation for a soft, yet sturdy cookie.
  • 1 tsp baking soda ensuring your cookies rise to the occasion.
  • 2 tbsp ground ginger delivering that spicy kick that’s quintessential to gingerbread.
  • 1 tbsp ground cinnamon for a warm depth of flavor.
  • 1/2 tsp ground cloves to add a hint of sweetness and earthiness.
  • 1/2 tsp salt balancing the sweetness and enhancing flavors.
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened lending richness to each bite.
  • 3/4 cup packed brown sugar providing moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
  • 1 large egg for binding and structure.
  • 1/2 cup molasses contributing that deep, dark sweetness that gingerbread is known for.
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract adding warmth and roundness to the flavor.
For the Royal Icing
  • 2 large egg whites forming the base for this elegant decoration.
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar sweetening and thickening the icing.
  • 1/2 tsp lemon juice aiding in the consistency and adding a touch of brightness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and mix until well combined.
  5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a cohesive dough forms.
  6. Divide the dough in half, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Baking
  1. Roll out one portion of the chilled dough to a thickness of 1/4 inch on a floured surface.
  2. Use cookie cutters to cut the dough into festive shapes.
  3. Place the shaped cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes.
  4. Cool the cookies on a wire rack before decorating.
Decorating
  1. In a bowl, beat the egg whites until foamy and then add powdered sugar and lemon juice, beating until stiff peaks form.
  2. Transfer royal icing to a piping bag and decorate the cooled cookies.
  3. Allow the icing to harden for 1-2 hours before serving.

Notes

For a softer cookie, underbake slightly. Optional extras like chocolate chips or dried fruit can be added for a unique twist. Ensure egg whites are at room temperature for royal icing.