Soft & Chewy Ginger Cookies

The first time I tried these soft & chewy ginger cookies at a baking party – I KNEW I had to have the recipe. Luckily, my friend was generous enough to share it with me and now I get to share it with you!

We love them around here because they’re a chewy, comforting bite of Christmas and they’ve been a bit hit at holiday parties and cookie exchanges.

So, if you’re looking to add a new cookie to your holiday baking line-up…trust me – this is the one!

One other word of warning, you may find yourself baking extra batches because they disappear quickly!

two ginger cookies on red plaid napkin with white mug of coffee

Ingredients

baked ginger cookies on parchment paper on baking sheet
  • 4 cups all purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar (divided)
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup fancy molasses
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 F.
  2. Sift together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves and salt: set aside.
  3. Cream butter and 2 cups of sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs, (one at a time) and beat briefly after each addition.
  5. Add molasses and vanilla and continue to mix until well combined and the mixture is pale in colour.
  6. Add dry ingredients and mix until fluffy and fully combined.
  7. In a small plate, add the remaining 1/2 cup sugar.
  8. Roll cookie mixture into large balls (approx. 2 inches) and roll around plate with sugar (being sure to coat all sides).
  9. Place cookies on parchment paper lined cookie sheets (about 2 inches apart).
  10. Use the palm of your hands to press down lightly on top of each ball to flatten slightly.
  11. Bake for 15 – 17 minutes – until cookies are firm around the edges but slightly soft in the centre.
  12. Remove from oven and transfer to wire racks to cool.

Oh, and if you’re looking for other holiday treats to whip up this year, check out my classic Snickerdoodle or Peanut butter cookie recipes. Perfect for Santa….or you! 😉

Joyful Hostess Tip: Serve these fragrant ginger cookies with hot buttered rum cider for a classic holiday pairing!