16 Dec 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 95 min
Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 yolk
2.50 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1 tbsp ginger
1 tsp spice mix
1 tsp baking soda
1 cup powdered sugar
Gingerbread men are a classic holiday treat that brings joy to both kids and adults alike. Their spiced aroma and delightful taste make them perfect for festive celebrations. This recipe will guide you through the steps to create these charming and delicious cookies.
Instructions:
1. Prepare Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the maple syrup and egg yolk, continuing to mix until well combined.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, spice mix, and baking soda.
3. Form the Dough:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Chill the Dough:
- Shape the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm enough to roll out.
5. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Roll Out Dough:
- On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use gingerbread man cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them onto the prepared baking sheets.
7. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm and lightly browned. Remove from oven and let the gingerbread men cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
8. Prepare Icing:
- In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with a small amount of water (about 1-2 tablespoons). Stir until smooth and thick enough to pipe. Add more water or powdered sugar as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
9. Decorate:
- Once the gingerbread men are completely cooled, use the icing to decorate. You can use a piping bag or a zip-lock bag with a small corner cut off to pipe the icing onto the cookies.
10. Serve:
- Allow the icing to set before transferring the decorated gingerbread men to a serving platter.
With this simple and delightful gingerbread men recipe, you can create charming cookies that are perfect for sharing during the holidays. Enjoy the process of baking and decorating these festive treats with your loved ones, and savor the warm flavors of ginger and spices in every bite.
Gingerbread men FAQ:
How long do I bake gingerbread men cookies?
Bake the gingerbread men in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are firm and lightly browned.
How should I store leftover gingerbread men?
Store leftover gingerbread men in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.
Can I substitute the butter with something else?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with an equal amount of margarine or a non-dairy butter alternative for vegan options. Be aware that this may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
How do I know when my gingerbread men are done baking?
Gingerbread men are done when the edges are firm and food is lightly browned. The centers may appear slightly soft but will firm up as they cool.
What can I use instead of maple syrup?
You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup in equal quantities. However, this may slightly change the flavor and sweetness.
Tips:
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least an hour before rolling it out to prevent it from sticking.
- Use a cookie cutter to create consistent shapes and sizes for your gingerbread men.
- Decorate your gingerbread men with icing and candies to give them a festive appearance.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.