Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies: Soft, Spiced, and Perfectly Festive
Few cookies capture the warmth and nostalgia of the holidays quite like Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies. With their bold spice flavor, soft chewy centers, and dramatic crackled tops dusted in powdered sugar, these cookies are as beautiful as they are irresistible. They deliver everything people love about classic gingerbread—without the fuss of rolling or cutting dough.
These cookies bake up thick and pillowy, with crisp edges and tender middles that stay soft for days. Molasses gives them deep flavor and moisture, while a blend of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg creates that unmistakable gingerbread aroma that fills the kitchen as they bake
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Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a cookie exchange, or simply craving something cozy, gingerbread crinkle cookies are always a hit.
What Makes Crinkle Cookies So Special
Crinkle cookies are known for their dramatic cracked appearance, created when powdered sugar-coated dough balls spread and rise in the oven. As the cookie expands, the sugar coating splits, revealing the darker cookie beneath.
In gingerbread crinkle cookies, this effect is especially striking. The contrast between snowy white sugar and deep brown gingerbread makes them stand out on any cookie platter. Beyond looks, the texture is what truly sets them apart—soft, chewy, and perfectly spiced.
Ingredients
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
- ¾ cup powdered sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and mix until fully incorporated.
- Beat in molasses and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Cover dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour until firm.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Scoop dough into 1½-inch balls.
- Roll each ball first in granulated sugar, then generously in powdered sugar.
- Place dough balls 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes until cookies are puffed, cracked, and set around the edges.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Whisk dry ingredients together.
- Cream butter and sugar, then add egg and molasses.
- Mix in dry ingredients and chill dough.
- Roll dough in sugars and bake until cracked.
Notes
Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies
- Chill the dough to prevent excessive spreading
- Roll generously in powdered sugar for bold crinkles
- Do not overbake; centers should remain soft
- Use fresh spices for the strongest flavor
Fun Variations
- Add a pinch of black pepper for extra warmth
- Mix in mini white chocolate chips
- Roll cookies in cinnamon sugar before powdered sugar
- Add orange zest for a bright citrus note
Serving Suggestions
Gingerbread crinkle cookies are perfect served with:
- Hot cocoa or coffee
- Spiced tea
- Holiday dessert platters
- Cookie gift boxes
They’re sturdy enough for gifting and stay soft for days.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Dough can be prepared and chilled up to 2 days in advance. You can also freeze dough balls before rolling for easy holiday baking.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe balances moisture, spice, and structure perfectly. Molasses keeps the cookies soft, brown sugar adds richness, and the spice blend delivers classic gingerbread flavor without overpowering sweetness. The double sugar roll ensures beautiful crinkles every time.
If you’re looking for a holiday cookie that’s easy, festive, and consistently delicious, Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are a must-bake classic.
