Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze

Name: Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup molasses; 1 large egg; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup; 1-2 tablespoons milk, as needed

Highlighted under: Seasonal & Festive

These delightful soft gingerbread cookies are a perfect treat for the holiday season or any cozy day at home. Infused with warm spices and topped with a luscious maple glaze, this recipe creates cookies that are both tender and flavorful. Perfectly chewy with a hint of sweetness, these gingerbread cookies are an excellent addition to your sugar cookie recipe collection and will impress family and friends alike.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2025-12-13T08:02:42.470Z

Soft gingerbread cookies hold a special place in the hearts of those who enjoy baking during the holiday season. The warmth of ginger and cinnamon fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around for a sweet treat.

The History of Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies have a rich history that dates back to ancient Greece and Egypt, where honey and spices were used to create sweet treats. By the Middle Ages, gingerbread had evolved, becoming especially popular in Europe. Bakers would often shape these cookies into festive molds, portraying various figures and animals, making them a highlight of holiday celebrations.

In Germany, the tradition of gingerbread cookies took on a life of its own with the creation of Lebkuchen, which are often spiced with nuts and honey. This confection became synonymous with Christmas markets, where you could find beautifully decorated gingerbread men and houses. Today, gingerbread cookies remain a beloved staple during the holiday season, bringing nostalgia and warmth to gatherings.

Tips for the Perfect Soft Cookies

To achieve the perfect soft gingerbread cookies, it's essential to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help ensure that you have the exact amounts needed for optimal texture. Additionally, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature to create that light and fluffy consistency that is key for chewy cookies.

Chilling the dough is another crucial step. Not only does chilling help the flavors to meld beautifully, but it also makes the dough easier to roll and shape. Ideally, you should chill the dough for at least an hour, but allowing it to sit overnight can further enhance the spice infusion, making your cookies even more flavorful.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Once your gingerbread cookies have cooled and been glazed, they make a delightful gift wrapped in decorative packaging. Pair them with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat. These cookies can also be a fun addition to holiday dessert platters, alongside other festive treats.

For storage, place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will remain fresh for up to a week. If you wish to enjoy them beyond this period, consider freezing the cookies. They can be frozen in a single layer and then transferred to a freezer-friendly container, allowing you to pull them out for special occasions or unexpected visitors.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

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

For the Maple Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar
2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
1-2 tablespoons milk, as needed

Mix all ingredients until well incorporated.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the molasses and egg until well combined.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

Chill and Bake

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes and place on parchment-lined baking sheets.

Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are set but the center remains soft. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Maple Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, and milk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cookies.

Allow the glaze to set before serving.

Healthier Alternatives

If you're looking to make a healthier version of these soft gingerbread cookies, consider substituting some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. You can also reduce the sugar slightly or use natural sweeteners like honey or coconut sugar.

Additionally, using unsweetened applesauce in place of some butter can help you cut down on fats while keeping the cookies moist. However, do keep in mind that these substitutions may slightly alter the texture and flavor, so feel free to experiment and find what works best for your taste.

Customizing Your Glaze

While the maple glaze adds a delightful sweetness to these cookies, you can get creative with different flavors. Consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract to the glaze for added depth. Alternatively, you could try using flavored syrups, such as vanilla or almond, to create a unique twist.

For a more festive touch, consider adding edible glitter or sprinkles on top of the glaze before it sets. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also brings a fun texture contrast to every bite.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before rolling and baking.

→ How do I store the cookies?

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.