Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze – Perfect Holiday Treat

This recipe for Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze is the perfect treat for your holiday season. Imagine soft, pillowy gingerbread with a subtle spice, slightly crisp edges, and a rich, maple glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re baking for a holiday party, a cozy family treat, or just because, these cookies offer the perfect combination of ginger, molasses, and sweetness that will leave everyone asking for more.

Why These Soft Gingerbread Cookies Are So Special

These Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze are an absolute game changer when it comes to holiday baking. Unlike traditional gingerbread cookies that are firm and crunchy, these are soft and chewy, with a delicate texture that’s simply irresistible. The combination of ginger, molasses, and a sweet maple glaze makes every bite a little piece of holiday magic. Plus, the maple glaze adds a creamy sweetness that enhances the spiced cookie flavor without overwhelming it.

Ingredients for Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze

Here’s what you’ll need to make these soft gingerbread cookies that are perfect for any holiday occasion:

For the Cookies:

• Unsalted butter: Provides richness and a tender texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dough and helps the cookies spread evenly.
• Egg: Binds the ingredients together and helps with the texture.
• Molasses: The key ingredient that gives gingerbread its signature flavor and depth.
• All-purpose flour: The main structure for the cookies.
• Baking soda: Helps the cookies spread and rise during baking.
• Salt: Enhances the flavors.
• Ground ginger: The star spice for a warm, peppery kick.
• Granulated sugar for rolling: Adds a slight crunch to the outside of the cookie.

For the Maple Glaze:

• Melted butter: Creates a smooth base for the glaze.
• Maple syrup: Adds a rich, natural sweetness that complements the gingerbread.
• Powdered sugar: Thickens the glaze to the perfect consistency.
• Milk: Helps achieve the right texture for dipping the cookies.
• Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re missing an ingredient or want to make adjustments for dietary preferences, here are some great swaps:

• Molasses Substitute: Maple syrup can be used as a substitute in a pinch, though it will change the flavor slightly.
• Butter Alternative: Use vegan butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Maple Glaze Adjustments: If you prefer a sturdier glaze, you can melt white chocolate chips with a bit of coconut oil as an alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze

Follow these simple steps to make your own batch of Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add wet ingredients: Mix in the egg and molasses until fully combined.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground ginger. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
5. Roll the dough: Scoop dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball), then roll each ball in granulated sugar. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake the cookies: Bake for 9-11 minutes, until the edges are slightly crisp, and the centers are still soft.
7. Prepare the maple glaze: While the cookies are baking, whisk together melted butter, maple syrup, powdered sugar, and milk in a bowl until smooth.
8. Glaze the cookies: Once the cookies have cooled slightly, dip one side into the maple glaze and let any excess drip off. Place the cookies on wax paper to set the glaze.
9. Add sprinkles (optional): If you’re feeling festive, add some colorful holiday sprinkles on top before the glaze sets completely.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Soft Gingerbread Cookies

To ensure your Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze come out perfectly every time, consider these tips:

• Do not overbake: Keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake. The key to soft gingerbread is pulling them out of the oven when they’re just starting to turn golden around the edges.
• Glaze consistency: If your glaze is too thick, add a bit more milk, one teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the desired consistency. A thicker glaze will set nicely, but it should still be dip-able.
• Storage tips: Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-5 days. They can also be frozen without the glaze and glazed later for freshness.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

These Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze can be paired with a variety of drinks and side dishes to elevate your holiday spread:

• Beverage Pairings: These cookies are perfect with a hot cup of spiced chai tea, hot chocolate, or a cozy cup of mulled wine.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
• Add-ins: For extra texture, you can add chopped pecans or walnuts to the dough before baking. These nuts will complement the spicy, sweet flavors perfectly.

Why Soft Gingerbread Cookies Are Perfect for the Holidays

Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze are more than just a delicious treat—they bring holiday cheer and warmth to every gathering. The soft texture and flavorful combination of spices make these cookies a perfect addition to your holiday baking tradition. The addition of the maple glaze makes these cookies stand out, offering a rich, creamy finish that’s truly irresistible.

Whether you’re gifting them, sharing them with friends, or enjoying them with your family, these cookies will quickly become a favorite seasonal treat that everyone will love. Enjoy the holiday season with these delightful soft gingerbread cookies—your kitchen will smell like a holiday wonderland in no time!

Conclusion

Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze are the perfect holiday treat that combines the rich flavors of molasses and ginger with a smooth, sweet maple glaze. These cookies offer the ideal balance of soft, chewy centers and slightly crisped edges, making them a delightful addition to any holiday celebration. Whether you’re baking for a festive gathering, a cozy family treat, or to share as gifts, these cookies are sure to leave everyone asking for the recipe. The rich, spicy flavor of gingerbread paired with the maple glaze makes them stand out as a memorable holiday favorite. Bake them once, and they will quickly become a go-to treat in your holiday repertoire.

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