Gingerbread Man Cookies (Printable Version)

Warm gingerbread men with cozy spices and sweet icing, perfect for holidays. #gingerbread #cookies #holidaybaking #spiced #festive

# Ingredients:

→ For the Gingerbread Man Cookies

01 - 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
02 - 1 tablespoon ground ginger
03 - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
04 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
05 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
06 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
07 - 1 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
09 - 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
10 - 2/3 cup molasses
11 - 1 large egg
12 - 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract

→ For the Icing

13 - 2 cups powdered sugar
14 - 2 to 4 tablespoons milk or water
15 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

# Steps:

01 - In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, salt, and baking soda until evenly combined.
02 - In a separate large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and packed dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses, large egg, and vanilla extract. Blend until fully incorporated.
03 - Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a cohesive dough forms. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
04 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out shapes using gingerbread man cookie cutters and arrange on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
05 - Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are set and cookies are light golden brown. Allow cookies to cool completely on a wire rack.
06 - In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk or water, and vanilla extract to achieve a smooth icing. Transfer to a piping bag and decorate the cooled cookies as desired.

# Notes:

01 - For a softer texture, slightly shorten the baking time. Enhance flavor by adding cardamom or allspice.