Gingerbread people

Gingerbread people are spiced cookies made with butter, brown sugar, and maple syrup, perfect for decorating during the holiday season. This straightforward recipe guides you through the mixing, shaping, and baking process, resulting in delicious festive treats.

10 Feb 2026
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 60 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 egg white
2.50 cups all-purpose white wheat flour
1 tbsp ginger
1 tsp cinnamon
2 garlic cloves
2 cups powdered sugar

Gingerbread people are a festive and fun treat to make during the holiday season. These spiced cookies are a joy to decorate and delicious to eat. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe will guide you through creating perfect gingerbread figures.

Instructions:

1. Prep Work:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Mix Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the maple syrup and continue to mix until well combined.
- Add the egg white and mix until fully incorporated.

3. Prepare Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, ground ginger, and ground cinnamon.
- If using, add the minced garlic cloves. (Again, note that garlic is unusual in a gingerbread recipe. Skip it if you prefer traditional gingerbread.)

4. Combine Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour until it reaches the right consistency.

5. Shape the Gingerbread People:
- Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Use gingerbread people cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the dough, and place them on the prepared baking sheets about 1 inch apart.

6. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Prepare Icing:
- In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar with a small amount of water (a few teaspoons) until you reach your desired icing consistency. The icing should be thick enough to hold its shape for decorating.

8. Decorate:
- Use the icing to decorate your gingerbread people as you like. You can use a piping bag or a zip-top bag with a small corner cut off for more precise decorating.

9. Enjoy:
- Allow the icing to set completely before enjoying your gingerbread people or storing them in an airtight container.

With these steps, you can bake delicious and decorative gingerbread people that will be the star of your holiday treats. Enjoy the process of baking and decorating with family and friends, and savor the wonderful flavors of ginger and cinnamon.

Gingerbread people FAQ:

What is the baking time for gingerbread people cookies?

Bake the gingerbread people in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.

How can I tell if the gingerbread cookies are done baking?

The gingerbread cookies are done when the edges are lightly browned and the centers are set. They may still appear soft, but they'll firm up as they cool.

How should I store leftover gingerbread people cookies?

Store leftover gingerbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to three months.

Can I substitute ingredients in this gingerbread recipe?

Yes, you can substitute honey or agave syrup for maple syrup, and you may replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative. If you prefer a traditional flavor without garlic, simply omit the minced garlic cloves.

What pan size is recommended for baking gingerbread people?

You can use standard baking sheets for baking gingerbread people. Make sure to line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.

Tips:

- Make sure your butter is softened before you start mixing to ensure a smooth dough.

- Chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling it out to make it easier to work with and to help the cookies hold their shape.

- Add the powdered sugar gradually when making the icing to achieve the desired consistency.

- Use baking paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking to the tray.

- Let the cookies cool completely before decorating them to avoid the icing melting.

Nutrition per serving

10 Servings
Calories 370kcal
Protein 4.40g
Carbohydrates 70g
Fiber 1.32g
Sugar 44g
Fat 10g

Gingerbread people