# Easy Simple Gingerbread Cookie Recipe: The Ultimate Holiday Treat

If you’re looking to fill your home with the warm, spicy aroma of freshly baked cookies, then this Easy Simple Gingerbread Cookie Recipe is just what you ne……

If you’re looking to fill your home with the warm, spicy aroma of freshly baked cookies, then this Easy Simple Gingerbread Cookie Recipe is just what you need! Perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to indulge in a delicious, nostalgic treat, these gingerbread cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying to eat.

## Why Choose This Easy Simple Gingerbread Cookie Recipe?

Gingerbread cookies have been a beloved holiday tradition for centuries. Their rich blend of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a comforting flavor that evokes feelings of warmth and joy. This Easy Simple Gingerbread Cookie Recipe takes the complexity out of baking, allowing you to enjoy the process without any stress.

## Ingredients You'll Need

To make these delightful cookies, gather the following ingredients:

- 3 cups all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon baking soda

- 2 teaspoons ground ginger

- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- 1 teaspoon ground cloves

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

- 1 cup brown sugar, packed

- 1 large egg

- 1/2 cup molasses

- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

These ingredients are easy to find, and you might already have many of them in your pantry!

## Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prep Your Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

2. **Mix the Dry Ingredients**: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set this aside.

3. **Cream the Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a light texture in your cookies.

4. **Add the Egg and Molasses**: Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and glossy.

5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until the dough comes together. If it feels too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

6. **Chill the Dough**: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step helps the flavors to meld and makes the dough easier to roll out.

7. **Roll and Cut**: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes.

8. **Bake**: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm. Keep an eye on them, as they can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly!

9. **Cool and Decorate**: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, feel free to decorate with icing, sprinkles, or simply enjoy them as they are.

## Tips for the Perfect Gingerbread Cookies

- **Spice It Up**: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. More ginger for a spicier cookie or extra cinnamon for sweetness can make a big difference.

- **Storage**: These cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week, or they can be frozen for longer storage.

- **Decorating Fun**: Get the kids involved in decorating! Use royal icing for intricate designs, or let them sprinkle colored sugar on top for a festive touch.

## Conclusion

This Easy Simple Gingerbread Cookie Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. Not only do they taste fantastic, but the process of making them is an enjoyable activity that brings family and friends together. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and start baking these delightful cookies that will fill your heart and home with holiday cheer!