Whether you’re embracing the holiday spirit or simply craving a cozy treat, nothing quite beats the aroma and flavor of freshly baked gingerbread cookies. The Great American Cookie Company Gingerbread recipe is a classic favorite that never fails to bring warmth and comfort to any home. With a perfect balance of spices and sweetness, these cookies are sure to become a go-to treat for family gatherings, festive celebrations, or a quiet afternoon indulgence.
**Great American Cookie Company Gingerbread**
**Ingredients:**
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients**: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg until well combined. Set aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**: In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or a stand mixer.
4. **Add Wet Ingredients**: Add the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until well incorporated.
5. **Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
6. **Chill the Dough**: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps the dough to firm up and makes it easier to roll out.
7. **Roll Out the Dough**: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes according to your preference.
8. **Bake the Cookies**: Place the cut-out cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set.
9. **Cool and Enjoy**: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, you can optionally decorate with icing or enjoy them as is.
No matter the occasion, these Great American Cookie Company Gingerbread cookies are a delightful homemade treat that will fill your home with the sweet scent of the holidays. Share them with loved ones, gift them in a festive tin, or simply savor them with a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy experience. Indulge in the simple pleasures of baking and create lasting memories with every delicious bite.