Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing
This delightful recipe for Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing is a holiday classic that brings families together, filled with cozy aromas and a perfectly spiced flavor.
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 120kcal
Ingredients
For the Cookies
- 3.25 cups 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour A versatile staple that forms the backbone of the dough.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp baking soda A leavening agent that ensures your cookies rise.
- 2 tbsp 2 tbsp ground ginger This aromatic spice delivers a warm, zesty kick.
- 1 tbsp 1 tbsp ground cinnamon Enhances the flavor profile.
- 0.5 tsp 1/2 tsp ground cloves Adds subtle, earthy depth.
- 0.5 tsp 1/2 tsp salt Balances sweetness.
- 0.75 cup 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened Adds richness and moisture.
- 0.75 cup 3/4 cup packed brown sugar Contributes moisture and deep flavor.
- 1 large 1 large egg Provides structure.
- 0.5 cup 1/2 cup molasses Integral for traditional gingerbread flavor.
- 1 tsp 1 tsp vanilla extract An aromatic touch.
For the Royal Icing
- 2 large 2 large egg whites Base for a glossy icing.
- 1.5 cups 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar Helps achieve the perfect consistency.
- 0.5 tsp 1/2 tsp lemon juice Brightens flavor and stabilizes icing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
- Mix in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two parts, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Baking
- Roll out half of the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Cut the dough into shapes using cookie cutters and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden at the edges.
- Let the cookies cool on a wire rack.
Making Royal Icing
- Beat the egg whites in a bowl until soft peaks form.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and lemon juice, beating until stiff peaks form.
- Decorate the cooled cookies with icing and let them set for 1-2 hours.
Notes
Tips: Experiment with spice levels, use gel food coloring for better icing, and ensure uniform cookie shapes for even baking.