CRUMBL gingerebread cookies Recipe

If you are on the hunt for the ultimate holiday treat that bursts with warmth and spice, look no further than these delightful CRUMBL gingerebread cookies. This recipe captures the perfect balance of chewy and tender textures, infused with the soul-soothing essence of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. The rich molasses flavor combined with a luscious cream cheese frosting creates a cookie that feels like a cozy hug in every bite. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, these CRUMBL gingerebread cookies will quickly become a cherished staple in your festive baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet incredibly important in crafting the perfect CRUMBL gingerebread cookies. Each component plays a unique role—from the molasses adding depth and sweetness to the spices providing that signature holiday warmth.

• 1/2 cup butter (salted or unsalted): Provides richness and moisture, making the cookies tender and flavorful.
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps achieve that slightly crisp exterior.
• 1/4 cup brown sugar: Enhances flavor with a hint of molasses and keeps the cookies soft.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together and contributes to the cookies’ chewy texture.
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract: Brings a lovely aromatic depth to support the spices.
• 2 tbsp molasses: The star ingredient that delivers that classic gingerbread flavor and beautiful color.
• 1 & 2/3 cup all purpose flour: The base for your dough, providing structure.
• 1 tbsp corn starch: Helps keep cookies tender and soft by limiting gluten development.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder: A gentle leavening agent for a slight lift.
• 1/4 tsp baking soda: Balances acidity and aids in browning.
• 1 tsp cinnamon: Adds warm, sweet spice essential to gingerbread.
• 1 tsp ground ginger: The zing that makes these cookies unforgettable.
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves: A subtle, aromatic spice that complements the others beautifully.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness.
• 4 oz cream cheese: For the frosting, contributing tangy richness and a smooth texture.
• 3 tbsp butter: Creamy base for the frosting, making it luscious and easy to pipe.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without graininess for a silky finish.
• 1 tsp vanilla: Adds warmth and rounds out the frosting’s flavor.

How to Make CRUMBL gingerebread cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough

Begin by creaming together the butter with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture turns light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, helping to create a tender texture. Then, blend in the egg, vanilla extract, and molasses – this trio brings the dough that iconic gingerbread taste and moisture.

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, corn starch, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ground ginger, ground cloves, and salt. Gradually mix these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently to preserve the dough’s lightness while incorporating all those warm spices beautifully.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Use a large cookie scoop (about 1/4 cup) to portion out even-sized dough balls onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Flatten each dough ball to roughly one inch thick to ensure the cookies bake evenly and develop that classic chewy-yet-soft texture central to CRUMBL gingerebread cookies.

Step 4: Bake and Cool

Bake the cookies in your preheated 350°F oven for 12 minutes. This timing ensures they’re perfectly cooked through while still soft inside. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 20 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely; this resting phase helps them finish setting up beautifully.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Whip together the softened cream cheese and butter in a stand mixer until smooth and creamy. Slowly add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then increase the speed to beat the frosting until it’s light, fluffy, and ready for piping—a perfect creamy contrast to the spiced cookie.

Step 6: Frost and Decorate

Fill a piping bag fitted with a large round tip with the frosting and pipe generous swirls over each cooled cookie. For that extra festive touch, top your CRUMBL gingerebread cookies with your favorite sprinkles—it’s like turning every cookie into a little celebration on a plate!

How to Serve CRUMBL gingerebread cookies

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, consider dusting a light coating of powdered sugar over the frosted cookies for a snowy effect. Fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of crushed candied ginger add a lovely pop of color and an extra zing of flavor that complements the spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve these cookies alongside a warm cup of chai tea or a creamy hot chocolate to build the ultimate cozy vibe. A glass of cold milk is a timeless pairing, too, letting the spices shine against a simple, refreshing backdrop.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your CRUMBL gingerebread cookies on a rustic wooden board adorned with cinnamon sticks and pine sprigs for a festive table centerpiece. Alternatively, stack them in a jar layered with colorful ribbon for a charming gift. You can even sandwich frosting between two cookies to make a delightful gingerbread sandwich!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your CRUMBL gingerebread cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and delicious for up to five days, making them perfect for enjoying gradually or sharing with friends and family.

Freezing

These cookies freeze wonderfully! Place unfrosted cookies on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Frosted cookies can be frozen as well, but be sure to freeze in a single layer. Thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

If you’d like to enjoy your CRUMBL gingerebread cookies warm, simply pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes. This refreshes the soft texture without melting the frosting. A quick zap in the microwave for 10 seconds also works in a pinch.

FAQs

Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can technically be used, butter is preferred in this recipe for its rich flavor and better texture. Butter helps achieve that tender chew and depth of flavor essential to CRUMBL gingerebread cookies.

Is it necessary to use corn starch in the dough?

Corn starch plays an important role in keeping the cookies tender by limiting gluten formation. Skipping it could result in denser, less delicate cookies, so it’s a small but valuable ingredient here.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute butter with vegan margarine, use a flax egg in place of the large egg, and choose a non-dairy cream cheese alternative. The spices and molasses will still create that beloved gingerbread flavor.

How long do these cookies last after baking?

Stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies maintain their freshness for about five days at room temperature. For longer storage, freezing is your best option.

Can I add other spices to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with nutmeg, allspice, or even a pinch of cardamom to personalize your CRUMBL gingerebread cookies and add your own signature twist to this classic recipe.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the way CRUMBL gingerebread cookies bring warmth and joy to any occasion. Once you taste that perfect marriage of spice, molasses, and creamy frosting, you’ll understand why these cookies have a fan following. So don’t wait—grab your apron and start baking. Your kitchen and loved ones will thank you for sharing this cozy, magical treat.

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