Save to Pins Rich, fudgy chocolate cookies infused with warm gingerbread spices, rolled in powdered sugar for a festive crinkle finish. Perfect for holiday gatherings and cozy winter treats.
I first baked these during the holidays and they were an instant family favorite.
Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients: 1 2/3 cups (210 g) all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup (45 g) unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt
- Wet Ingredients: 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter softened, 1 cup (200 g) packed brown sugar, 1/4 cup (60 ml) molasses, 2 large eggs, 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- For Rolling: 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Step 2:
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2 3 minutes).
- Step 3:
- Mix in the molasses, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until incorporated.
- Step 5:
- Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (up to overnight) to firm up.
- Step 6:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 7:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll into smooth balls.
- Step 8:
- Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar and place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
- Step 9:
- Bake for 11 13 minutes, until cookies have spread and crinkled but are still soft in the center.
- Step 10:
- Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Save to Pins These cookies bring my family together every winter with their warm spices and festive look.
Notes
For extra spice add a pinch of black pepper. Store in airtight container for up to 5 days. Delicious paired with hot cocoa or mulled wine.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls Electric mixer or whisk Measuring cups and spoons Rubber spatula Baking sheets Parchment paper Wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (gluten) eggs milk (butter). Using gluten-free flour and dairy-free butter makes recipe adaptable. Always verify ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Save to Pins Enjoy these festive cookies warm with a glass of milk for the perfect holiday treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What gives these cookies their crinkle texture?
Rolling the chilled dough balls generously in powdered sugar before baking creates the signature crinkle effect as the cookies spread and crack.
- → Can I substitute molasses with another ingredient?
Dark corn syrup can be used instead, though it will alter the flavor slightly and reduce the deep molasses richness.
- → How important is chilling the dough before baking?
Chilling firms up the dough, helps control spreading, and enhances the texture and flavor development of the cookies.
- → What spices are used to achieve the warm gingerbread flavor?
A blend of ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg creates the cozy spice profile reminiscent of gingerbread.
- → Are these cookies suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, they contain no meat products and are appropriate for a vegetarian diet.
- → How should these cookies be stored after baking?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days to maintain freshness.