No spread gingerbread cutout cookies, perfect for holiday decorating and snacking

I’m so excited to share one of my favorite recipes: No Spread Gingerbread Cutout Cookies! I was that kid who lived for the holidays—dreaming of the gingerbread houses I’d build but always ended up eating my supplies before I could create anything significant. Let me tell you, nothing beats the aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses wafting through the house. One year, I got a bit too enthusiastic with the decorating and ended up with sugar-rushed frosting all over my hands, my face, and yes, even the cat. Let’s just say that my gingerbread house was less of a house and more of a festive sugar fiasco.

However, after years of practice (and some epic fails that I usually laugh about now), I finally cracked the code to a cookie recipe that not only holds its shape but also has the perfect balance of spice and sweetness. These cutout cookies are sturdy and delightful, which means no more cookie casualties. They’re perfect for decorating, snacking, and even gifting to that neighbor you secretly hope will invite you over for dinner someday (not that I’m looking or anything).

So, if you’re ready to channel your inner gingerbread artist, gather your apron, and let’s get baking! I promise this will be a fun and delightful culinary adventure.

Why This Recipe is Great

1. It holds its shape: These cookies aren’t the kind that spread out into lumpy blobs. Nope, these beauties hold their design. You can create a gingerbread Santa, a Christmas tree, or even your enthusiastic rendition of Frosty the Snowman—and they’ll stay put!

2. Perfect for kids: If you have kiddos at home (or just want to feel like one), this recipe is a great way to spend an afternoon. Kids can roll, cut, and decorate to their hearts’ content—well, until they get distracted by sprinkles everywhere.

3. Flavor explosion: I’m talking about the warm spices combining with that slight sweetness. Each bite brings a smile and a festive vibe. It’s like a holiday party in your mouth.

4. Versatile cookies: Not in a decorating mood? No problem! You can scoop some of this dough, roll into balls, sprinkle with sugar, and bake those bad boys for a simple yet delicious holiday treat that still has a festive flair.

5. The memories: Baking these cookies creates lasting memories. Be it decorating with friends or family or simply indulging with a cup of hot cocoa. Each batch tells a story and spreads joy, so get ready to create yours!

Preparation & Cooking Time

– Total Time: 1 hour
– Preparation Time: 30 minutes
– Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
– Servings: About 24 cookies (depending on how big you want them)
– Calories per serving: Approximately 150 calories
– Key Nutrients:
– Protein: 2g
– Carbs: 20g
– Fat: 6g

Ingredients You Need

– 3 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of our cookies; think of it as the canvas of our sugary masterpiece.
– 1 tablespoon ground ginger – The zesty hero in our holiday saga.
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – Essential for that warm, cozy vibe.
– ½ teaspoon ground cloves – Just a pinch adds a royal touch, like a crown for your cookie.
– 1 teaspoon baking soda – The bubbly sidekick that helps our cookies rise to the occasion.
– ½ teaspoon salt – Balance is key, and this little guy knows just how to do it.
– ¾ cup unsalted butter – Because what’s a cookie without some buttery goodness?
– 1 cup packed brown sugar – The sweet and deep flavor that keeps me coming back for more.
– 1 large egg – The binding agent that holds our cookie family together.
– ½ cup unsulfured molasses – A rich addition that makes everything deliciously sticky and sweet.
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Because any good recipe needs a splash of love!

Ingredient Highlights & Variations

All-Purpose Flour: Let’s give a round of applause to our versatile friend here. Perfect for cookies, cakes, and even pizza dough if you’re feeling adventurous. If you’re gluten-free, you can swap in a gluten-free blend—just make sure it includes xanthan gum!

Ground Spices: The ginger, cinnamon, and cloves bring the holiday cheer to these cookies. Did you know that ground ginger is actually dried ginger root? Try using fresh ginger for a punchy twist. You’ll feel like a kitchen magician.

Unsalted Butter: You might be surprised to learn that butter isn’t just for flavor. It helps with the texture, providing that melt-in-your-mouth sensation. Feel free to substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option that works surprisingly well.

Molasses: This isn’t just any syrup. It’s a thick, dark, sweet liquid with a history. Packed with nutrients, molasses isn’t just delicious; it’s got a hidden personality. Want an earthier flavor? Try using dark molasses!

Vanilla Extract: Oh the sweet aroma! Use pure vanilla for top-tier flavor. If you’re feeling particularly fancy, try infusing your extract with cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is like waking up your oven from its cozy slumber—let it know it’s about to get to work!

2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Give it a good stir until everything’s mixed nicely. It’s a party party in a bowl!

3. In another bowl, beat together the butter and brown sugar until creamy. This is the moment you realize why butter is life.

4. Add in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract. Mix it up like you’re making the world’s best potion!

5. Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir until combined. Don’t overmix—it’s a cookie dough, not a workout!

6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about ¼ inch thick. Make sure it doesn’t stick. Avoid the cookie monster clause: no dough left behind.

7. Cut into your desired shapes using cookie cutters. Transfer them to a lined baking sheet, giving them a little space to breathe.

8. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are firm but the centers are slightly soft. Caution: the aroma might drive you wild as you wait!

9. Let the cookies cool on the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

10. Decorate them as you like after they cool completely. This is where the fun truly begins!

How to Serve It

Serve them straight from the oven for a warm, melty treat. If you want to impress folks, arrange the cookies on a festive platter, perhaps with a sprinkle of powdered sugar as a snowy touch. Pair them with a mug of hot cocoa, spiced tea, or even the classic glass of milk!

For serving surprises, get creative! Use icing for decorative flair—think snowman faces or fun little Christmas trees. Maybe even set up a cookie decorating station at a holiday gathering? Trust me, guests will appreciate indulging in both eating and decorating—because who doesn’t love a little friendly competition?

Garnish with mini marshmallows or colorful sprinkles for a touch of whimsy. Once they’re all decked out, dig in with family or friends, or simply have a cute cookie picnic. Just make sure to keep some for yourself—they’re too good to share with everyone.

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat flour? Absolutely, but these cookies might take on a denser vibe. Give them a shot if you’re feeling adventurous.

What if I don’t have molasses? Honey or maple syrup can work as substitutes, but the flavor will change a bit. Just remember; it’ll be less like a gingerbread cookie and more like… a really tasty cookie!

Can I freeze the dough? Yes! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and pop it in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Fresh cookies await!

How do I store the cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should last about a week… if they last that long.

Can I make these gluten-free? Certainly! Use a gluten-free baking blend, and they’ll work just as well. You might even surprise yourself!

Conclusion

So there you have it—my journey into the world of No Spread Gingerbread Cutout Cookies. I sincerely hope you get a chance to try this recipe and bring a sprinkle of joy into your kitchen. Whether you’re spending a delightful afternoon baking with loved ones or just indulging solo with a guilty pleasure, these cookies are sure to bring smiles all around.

Feel free to share your experiences in the comments, or let me know your quirky variations. I can’t wait to see how you all get creative! Happy baking, my friends, and remember: it’s all about the taste and the memories.