Classic Gingerbread People Cookies: A Delightful Holiday Baking Recipe and Gifting Guide

This timeless Gingerbread People Cookies recipe is not just for your own festive indulgence; these charming, aromatic treats also make for wonderfully thoughtful and delectable gifts during the holiday season!

There’s a special kind of magic that fills the air when gingerbread cookies are baking. The rich, spicy aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses wafting through your home instantly transports you to a cozy, festive wonderland. For many, gingerbread cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a cherished holiday tradition, a symbol of warmth and joy shared with loved ones. I remember spending countless hours as a child with my mom, crafting intricate gingerbread houses and cutting out dozens of smiling gingerbread people. It’s a fond memory, and one that many of us carry into adulthood. Surprisingly, as an adult, I hadn’t made them myself until recently.

Just last week, while browsing online, I discovered a beautifully photographed post that reignited my childhood passion for gingerbread. The images were so inviting, so utterly charming, that I immediately cleared my afternoon schedule. You see, the holiday season for me is a delightful blend of two great loves: baking and crafting. And what could be a more perfect fusion of these two activities than decorating gingerbread people? Each cookie becomes a tiny edible canvas, waiting for your creative touch. The thought of bringing these little characters to life with vibrant icing and sprinkles was simply irresistible.

The beauty of homemade cookies extends beyond their delicious taste; they represent a heartfelt gesture. In a world of hurried last-minute shopping, a box of freshly baked cookies stands out as a truly personal and caring gift. With Christmas just around the corner, consider bypassing the crowded malls and instead, fill your kitchen with the comforting scents of holiday baking. This gingerbread people recipe is an excellent starting point, but don’t stop there! You can bake three or four different cookie varieties, then assemble an assortment in a beautifully wrapped box. For an extra special touch, you might even include the recipes so your friends and family can recreate their favorites. A homemade edible gift isn’t just an item; it’s an experience, a token of your effort and affection that is guaranteed to bring smiles.

To help you on your holiday baking journey, I’ve delved deep into my archives, scanned my bookmarks, and reviewed my favorite blog recipes. I’ve curated a collection of delicious cookie and candy recipes that are not only perfect for making ahead but also keep wonderfully, ensuring your festive treats stay fresh for gifting or enjoying throughout the season. Now, let’s preheat those ovens and get baking!

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Classic Gingerbread People Cookies

These classic gingerbread people cookies are the perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit! Not only are they incredibly fun to bake and decorate, but their delightful spice and soft texture make them an ideal edible gift for friends and family, bringing warmth and cheer to any festive occasion.

Yields 48 3-inch (7.5-cm) cookies

Author Marie Asselin (FoodNouveau.com)

Ingredients

• For the Cookies:
• ½ cup (125 ml) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (see Make it Dairy-Free note below for alternative)
• ¾ cup (180 ml) packed light or dark brown sugar
• ⅓ cup (80 ml) robust molasses
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) cold water
• 2 ⅔ cups (660 ml) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp (5 ml) baking soda
• ½ tsp (2 ml) kosher salt
• 1 tsp (5 ml) ground ginger
• ½ tsp (2 ml) freshly grated nutmeg
• ½ tsp (2 ml) ground cardamom (cinnamon can be substituted if desired)
• ½ tsp (2 ml) allspice
• For the Icing:
• 1 cup (250 ml) powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar)
• 2 to 3 tbsp (30 to 45 ml) whole milk (see Make it Dairy-Free note)
• Food coloring (optional, for vibrant decorations)
• Edible sprinkles (optional, for added sparkle and fun)

Instructions

• Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or in a large mixing bowl if you’re using a handheld mixer), cream together the softened butter and packed brown sugar. Beat on medium speed until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined – this typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Next, add the molasses, egg, and cold water, beating until just incorporated. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, kosher salt, ground ginger, freshly grated nutmeg, ground cardamom, and allspice. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough. Once combined, gently dump the soft dough onto a clean, lightly floured countertop. Gather the dough into a flat ball, then divide it into two equal portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until the dough is firm enough to roll without sticking excessively. This chilling step is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven and helps achieve that perfect gingerbread texture.
• Step 2: Roll and Cut the Cookies. While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even baking. Once the dough is sufficiently chilled, take one portion out of the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface (you can also roll between two sheets of parchment paper to avoid adding too much flour), roll out the dough evenly to a thickness of approximately 1/5-inch (0.5-cm). Use a floured cookie cutter, preferably a classic gingerbread person shape, to cut out your cookies. Place the cut-out shapes about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Reroll any dough scraps, being careful not to overwork the dough, and continue cutting out shapes until all the dough has been used.
• Step 3: Bake the Cookies. Carefully transfer the baking sheets to the preheated oven. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are just firm and slightly golden. It’s crucial not to overbake gingerbread cookies, as they can quickly become too crunchy and tough instead of delightfully chewy. The center of the cookie might still seem soft when you take them out, but they will firm up as they cool. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and immediately transfer them to wire racks to cool completely before decorating. This allows air to circulate around them, preventing sogginess and ensuring a crisp exterior.
• Step 4: Prepare the Icing. While the cookies are cooling, prepare your decorative icing. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of whole milk. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and lump-free. If the icing is too thick, add the remaining milk (or a tiny bit more, drop by drop) until you achieve a consistency that is thick enough to hold its shape for piping, but still pourable enough to flow smoothly. For extra festive flair, mix in food coloring if desired. Divide the icing into separate bowls and add different colors for a variety of decorating options.
• Step 5: Decorate the Gingerbread People. Once the cookies are completely cool, transfer the prepared icing into a piping bag fitted with a small, round tip (or a Ziploc bag with a tiny corner snipped off). Let your creativity shine as you decorate the gingerbread people with intricate designs, classic buttons, eyes, and smiles. Don’t forget to add edible sprinkles for that extra sparkle, if desired! After decorating, gently place the cookies back on the wire racks and allow them to rest flat until the icing completely hardens. This might take a few hours, depending on the humidity and icing thickness, but it ensures your beautiful decorations won’t smudge when handled or packaged.

STORAGE

• To keep your gingerbread cookies fresh and delicious, store them in airtight containers at room temperature for up to one week. If you need to store them for longer, they freeze beautifully! Place the undecorated or fully hardened decorated cookies in airtight containers or freezer bags, separating layers with parchment paper, and freeze for up to one month. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• These gingerbread people cookies are best served at room temperature, allowing their flavors to fully develop and their texture to be perfectly tender-chewy. They’re wonderful on their own, with a warm cup of coffee or tea, or as a festive addition to any dessert platter.

MAKE IT DAIRY-FREE

• For the cookies: Easily adapt this recipe to be dairy-free by substituting the butter with a high-quality dairy-free buttery shortening or vegan butter sticks, such as Earth Balance’s Vegan Buttery Sticks. Ensure it’s softened to room temperature just like regular butter.
• For the icing: Simply use your preferred dairy-free milk alternative in place of whole milk. Soy milk or almond milk works wonderfully to achieve the desired icing consistency without compromising flavor.
• Recipe Credit: This delightful recipe has been adapted with minor modifications from the original post on Simply Beautiful Eating.

Did you make this recipe?

I’d love to hear how your gingerbread people cookies turned out! Leave a comment below to share your experience, or snap a picture and tag it with @foodnouveau on Instagram. Your creations inspire us!

64 Delectable Cookies and Candies That Make Perfect Edible Gifts

Beyond the classic gingerbread, the world of edible gifts is vast and full of delicious possibilities. Whether you’re planning a holiday cookie exchange, assembling treat boxes for neighbors, or simply looking for delightful homemade presents, this curated list offers a wide array of cookies and candies. Each category below provides unique flavors and textures, ensuring there’s something to please every palate and make your gift-giving extra special. Get inspired by these fantastic recipes and make your holidays truly sweet!

Irresistible Bar Cookies

Bar cookies are a dream for holiday gifting due to their ease of preparation and simple portability. They’re typically baked in a single pan and then cut into uniform squares or rectangles, making them perfect for stacking in gift boxes. From rich blondies to hearty oatmeal bars, this selection offers robust flavors and satisfying textures that are sure to be a hit.

ROW 1 //

1. White Chocolate & Hazelnut Blondies
2. Dark Chocolate Oatmeal Bars
3. Brownies in a Jar

ROW 2 //

1. Persimmon and Orange Streusel Bars
2. Whiskey, Pecan, and White Chocolate Blondies
3. Salty, Deep-Dark Chocolate Brownies

Timeless Chocolate Chip Cookies

No cookie collection is complete without the universally beloved chocolate chip cookie. This section features classic recipes and exciting variations, adding a gourmet twist to a familiar favorite. Whether you prefer them perfectly chewy, with unexpected additions like marzipan or orange zest, these chocolate chip cookies are always a welcome treat for any recipient.

ROW 1 //

1. The Perfect Chocolate Chip Cookies
2. Marzipan Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe
3. Itsy Bitsy Chocolate Chip Cookies

ROW 2 //

1. Rosemary, Almond, and White Chocolate Cookies
2. Milk Chocolate Cookies and Cream Cookies
3. Chocolate Chip Cookies with Almonds and Orange Zest

Delightfully Chewy Cookies

For those who prefer a softer bite, this selection of chewy cookies is sure to hit the spot. These recipes emphasize moist, tender textures combined with rich flavors, from comforting spiced oatmeal to decadent dark chocolate and unique fruit and nut combinations. They hold up beautifully in gift packaging and offer a satisfying, melt-in-your-mouth experience.

ROW 1 //

1. Thin and Chewy Spiced Oatmeal Cookies with Brown Butter Icing
2. Molasses Cookies with Lemon Glaze
3. Dark Chocolate Crinkle Cookies

ROW 2 //

1. Triple Dark Chocolate Waffle Cookies
2. Cherry, Chocolate, and Pistachio Macaroons
3. Magical Almond Cookies

Crispy Crunchy Cookies

For lovers of a satisfying snap, these crunchy cookie recipes are just the thing. From delicate biscotti to aromatic shortbreads, these cookies offer a different kind of texture experience, perfect for dipping in coffee or tea, or simply enjoying their crisp bite. Their sturdy nature also makes them excellent candidates for shipping as gifts.

ROW 1 //

1. Pistachio-Cranberry Biscotti Straws
2. Mexican Hot Chocolate Snowball Cookies
3. Danish Vanilla Rings

ROW 2 //

1. Pistachio Shortbread with Cardamom and Cacao Nibs
2. Cardamom Cashew Balls
3. Brown Butter Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Bean Icing

Decadent Chocolate Bites

For the true chocoholics on your gift list, these elegant chocolate bites are an absolute must-make. From zesty orangettes to homemade peanut butter cups and luxurious truffles, this selection offers rich, indulgent flavors in bite-sized portions. These are ideal for a sophisticated edible gift that feels incredibly special and homemade.

ROW 1 //

1. Dark Chocolate Orangettes
2. Homemade Peanut Butter Cups with Bourbon
3. Gingerbread Truffles

ROW 2 //

1. Wild Blueberry and Blackcurrant Cream Truffles
2. Peppermint Pretzel Marshmallow Fudge
3. Dark Chocolate, Roasted Hazelnut, and Dried Cherry Bites

Sweet Maple Treats

Embrace the rich, distinctive flavor of maple syrup with these delightful treats. This collection highlights the versatility of maple, from creamy fudge to airy meringues and various cookies. These recipes are perfect for anyone who appreciates the natural sweetness and unique taste of this beloved ingredient, making for a truly Canadian-inspired gift.

ROW 1 //

1. Maple Syrup Fudge
2. Crispy Maple Mini-Meringues
3. Chewy Maple Syrup Fudge and Pecan Cookies

ROW 2 //

1. Pecan and Maple Thumbprint Cookies
2. Candied Orange and Maple Madeleines
3. Homemade Maple Leaf Cookies

Charming Homemade Candies

Homemade candies offer a luxurious and impressive gift option that many people might not expect. This section features everything from fluffy marshmallows to crunchy brittles and creamy caramels. These artisanal confections are perfect for adding variety to a holiday treat box or presenting as a standalone gift to impress even the most discerning sweet tooth.

ROW 1 //

1. Pomegranate and Cranberry Marshmallows
2. Chocolate Almond Ginger Bark
3. Salted Maple and Toasted Walnut Brittle

ROW 2 //

1. Vanilla Caramels with Fleur de Sel
2. White Chocolate Candies with Vanilla Bean, Coconut, and Honey
3. White Chocolate Almond Butter Cups

Truly Spectacular Edible Gifts

For those times when you want to create a truly show-stopping edible gift, this category delivers. These recipes range from charming mini cakes and intricately designed cookies to elegant madeleines and unique flavor combinations. These are creations that not only taste incredible but also look impressive, making them perfect for special occasions or when you want to truly spoil someone with a homemade masterpiece.

ROW 1 //

1. Sugar Cookie Mini Cakes
2. Ampersandwich Cookies (Peanut Linzer Cookies with Strawberry Chocolate Ganache)
3. Mocha Madeleines with White Chocolate Glaze

ROW 2 //

1. Salted Gingersnap Mallomars
2. Mexican Chocolate Rolls
3. Pecan and Dark Chocolate Ganache Sables

The joy of holiday baking is not just in the eating, but in the making and sharing. We hope this comprehensive guide, starting with our beloved Gingerbread People Cookies, inspires you to fill your kitchen with warmth and your loved ones’ hearts with delicious homemade treats this festive season. From classic favorites to exciting new discoveries, there’s a perfect edible gift for everyone. Happy baking and Happy Holidays!

Follow Marie Asselin’s board Totally Giftable Cookies & Candies on Pinterest.