Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze, that’s what we’re making today! These aren’t just any cookies; they’re a warm hug in cookie form, perfect for chilly evenings and holiday gatherings. The soft, chewy texture combined with the warmth of gingerbread spices and the sweetness of maple glaze is simply irresistible.
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These Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze are more than just a recipe; they’re a memory in the making. Each bite reminds me of holiday baking with my family, the kitchen filled with the aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and maple syrup. Let’s get baking and create some delicious memories together!
Why You Will Love This Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe
This Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze recipe is a winner for so many reasons. First, the cookies are incredibly soft and chewy, unlike some gingerbread cookies that can be dry and crumbly. The combination of molasses and spices creates a rich, warm flavor that’s perfect for the holidays.
Plus, the maple glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and complexity that complements the gingerbread perfectly. It is easy to find yourself making these cookies again and again!
Making these cookies is also surprisingly easy. The recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, so even beginner bakers can achieve delicious results.
And who can resist that aroma? The wonderful scent of gingerbread wafting through your kitchen is guaranteed to bring joy to everyone in your home. This simple treat is a surefire win for gatherings with friends or a family holiday!
Ingredients Needed for This Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to bake a batch of these irresistible Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze:
For the Cookies:- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make This Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe
- 1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- 2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- 3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- 4. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- 5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- 6. Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- 7. Bake: Bake for 810 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- 8. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- 9. Make the Glaze: While the cookies are cooling, prepare the maple glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk, one teaspoon at a time, if needed to reach the desired consistency.
- 10. Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle them with the maple glaze. Let the glaze set before serving.
How to Serve This Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe
These Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze are perfect on their own as a simple, sweet treat. They are wonderful to pair with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
For a festive touch, arrange them on a platter with other holiday cookies and treats like Gingerbread Cheesecake Cookies. The sweet and comforting textures of gingerbread flavors will surely be a showstopper during the holidays.
Consider crumbling them over ice cream or using them as a base for a mini gingerbread trifle.
Why not bring them to your next holiday party to spread the holiday cheer with amazing cookies?
How to Store This Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe
To keep your Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Thaw the cookies at room temperature before serving.
Reheating is generally not necessary, but for a warm cookie experience, microwave them for a few seconds until slightly softened.
Tips to Make This Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe
- Use Softened Butter: Ensure your butter is properly softened before creaming it with the sugar. This will help create a light and airy dough.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. Avoid scooping directly from the bag, as this can pack the flour and result in dry cookies.
- Chill Dough (Optional): For slightly thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling. This will prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven.
- Customize the Glaze: Experiment with different flavored extracts in the glaze; vanilla or almond extract will go great with the maple syrup!
Helpful Notes for This Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe
- Molasses Type: Use dark molasses for a richer, more intense flavor. Light molasses will result in a milder taste.
- Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the amount of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves to suit your personal preference.
- Maple Syrup Quality: Use pure maple syrup for the best flavor in the glaze. Imitation syrup will not provide the same depth of flavor.
- If you want to try other equally appealing cookie recipes, considering trying this recipe for Easy Peach Cobbler Recipe With Cake Mix that results in cookies.
Variation of This Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze Recipe
- Chocolate Chip Gingerbread Cookies: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a chocolatey twist.
- Lemon Glaze: Replace the maple syrup in the glaze with lemon juice for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Spiced Glaze: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon to the glaze for an extra layer of spice.
- Decorated Gingerbread Cookies: Use royal icing to decorate the cookies with festive designs.
How do I keep gingerbread cookies soft?
Using molasses and brown sugar in the dough helps retain moisture, resulting in soft gingerbread cookies. Avoid overbaking and store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I make the gingerbread cookie dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Let it soften slightly before rolling and cutting out the cookies.
What’s the best way to store gingerbread cookies?
Store baked gingerbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. This will help them stay soft and prevent them from drying out. They typically last for 3-5 days.
Can I freeze gingerbread cookies?
Yes, you can freeze baked and cooled gingerbread cookies. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
What can I use if I don’t have maple syrup for the glaze?
You can substitute honey or a simple syrup made with granulated sugar and water for the maple syrup in the glaze. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Conclusion
These Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze are a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their soft, chewy texture, warm spiced flavor, and sweet maple glaze, they are sure to become a new family favorite. Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy the comforting goodness of homemade Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze. Happy baking!
