It’s the most wonderful time of the year – the holiday season! What better way to spread cheer than with a kitchen full of delicious treats? Gingerbread, in all its forms, is a classic holiday staple that evokes memories of warm spices, cozy firesides, and joyful gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a newbie in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 scrumptious gingerbread recipes to make your holidays merry and bright.
From classic cookies and loaves to creative twists like pancakes, scones, and even granola, we’ll guide you through the world of gingerbread delights. With options for every taste and dietary need, including vegan and gluten-free, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So why wait? Get baking and start making your holiday season a little sweeter with these mouthwatering gingerbread recipes!
Classic Gingerbread Cookies
These soft and spicy cookies are a holiday classic, perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying on your own. With just the right amount of ginger and molasses, these cookies will become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons molasses
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and molasses.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Soft Gingerbread Loaf Cake
Moist and flavorful, this soft gingerbread loaf cake is perfect for any occasion. With the warmth of ginger and spices, it’s a delightful treat to enjoy with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating just until combined.
5. Stir in chopped crystallized ginger.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool on wire rack for 10 minutes before transferring to a plate.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gingerbread House with Royal Icing
Create a festive holiday treat that’s sure to impress with this classic gingerbread house recipe, paired with a simple royal icing recipe for decorating.
Ingredients:
For the Gingerbread:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
For the Royal Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder (or 2 tablespoons water)
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the gingerbread dough according to package instructions or recipe of your choice.
3. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes for the house, using a cookie cutter or knife.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm to the touch. Allow to cool completely.
5. To make royal icing, whisk together powdered sugar, meringue powder (or water), and lemon juice until smooth. Add food coloring if desired.
6. Assemble the house by spreading a small amount of royal icing on the bottom of each piece and stacking them. Let set before decorating with additional royal icing.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes for gingerbread, none for royal icing
Gingerbread Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day off right with these deliciously spiced gingerbread pancakes, topped with a drizzle of pure maple syrup. A perfect blend of sweet and savory, this recipe is sure to become a morning favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 3 tablespoons ground ginger
– 2 tablespoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip pancakes and cook an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes per batch (depending on number of pancakes).
Vegan Gingerbread Muffins
Perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon treat, these vegan gingerbread muffins are made with wholesome ingredients and a hint of spice. Moist, flavorful, and topped with a crumbly oat streusel, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 1 egg replacement (such as flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together non-dairy milk, canola oil, and egg replacement.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Tips:
– For an extra boost of spice, add another 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger to the batter.
– Top with a crumbly oat streusel made from rolled oats, brown sugar, and canola oil for added texture and flavor.
Spiced Gingerbread Latte
This recipe combines the comforting flavors of gingerbread with the richness of latte, creating a delicious and cozy drink perfect for the holiday season. With its inviting aroma and spicy kick, this spiced gingerbread latte is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong brewed coffee
– 1 cup milk (whole, 2%, or non-fat)
– 1 tablespoon molasses
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Whipped cream and additional spices for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of strong coffee and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
3. Add the molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg to the milk. Whisk until well combined.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Strain the milk into a large mug. Add the brewed coffee and sugar (if using).
6. Top with whipped cream and additional spices, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Gingerbread Cheesecake with Caramel Drizzle
This rich and decadent dessert combines the spices of gingerbread with the creaminess of cheesecake, topped off with a velvety caramel drizzle. Perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
For the cheesecake:
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the caramel drizzle:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust and bake for 10 minutes.
3. Mix cheesecake ingredients and pour into crust-lined pan.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
5. Allow cheesecake to cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce.
Cooking Time: 55-65 minutes
Gluten-Free Gingerbread Brownies
These chewy brownies are infused with the warmth of ginger and spices, perfect for a gluten-free holiday treat. With only 8 ingredients, they’re easy to make and sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond flour
– 1/2 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar, and spices.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and grated ginger to the dry ingredients. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Let cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gingerbread French Toast Casserole
Start your day off right with this unique twist on traditional French toast, infused with the warm spices of gingerbread. This casserole is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend breakfast.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of bread (white or whole wheat), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Chopped fresh cranberries or pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add bread cubes to the egg mixture and toss until coated.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and dot with melted butter.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Top with whipped cream and garnish with cranberries or pecans, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gingerbread Truffles with White Chocolate Coating
These bite-sized treats combine the warmth of gingerbread spices with the creaminess of white chocolate, making them perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups rolled oats
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– White chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate, for coating
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until well combined.
4. Roll into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Allow to cool completely. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
6. Melt white chocolate chips or chop chopped white chocolate. Dip cooled gingerbread truffles into melted white chocolate, coating evenly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gingerbread Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
Perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a sweet treat, these gingerbread cupcakes are infused with the warmth of spices and topped with a tangy cream cheese frosting.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– Cream cheese frosting (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine butter, eggs, molasses, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among cupcake liners.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Beat cream cheese and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar; beat until combined.
Gingerbread Ice Cream Sandwiches
Brighten up your winter with a sweet treat that combines the spicy warmth of gingerbread with the creamy coolness of ice cream. These adorable sandwiches are perfect for a cozy evening in or a fun party favor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 12-16 gingerbread cookies (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pint your favorite ice cream flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat the freezer to its lowest temperature setting.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, cinnamon, and ginger until stiff peaks form.
3. Scoop the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Once set, place scoops of your favorite ice cream between two gingerbread cookies.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-30 minutes (depending on the ice cream maker)
Gingerbread Scones with Orange Glaze
These warm-spiced scones are infused with the comforting flavors of ginger and cinnamon, while the tangy orange glaze adds a bright and citrusy twist. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– Orange glaze ingredients: 1 cup powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, and ginger.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into a crumbly mixture.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, stirring until dough forms.
5. Pat dough into a circle, about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. While scones are still warm, prepare orange glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and orange juice.
8. Drizzle glaze over cooled scones.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Gingerbread Bundt Cake with Lemon Glaze
This moist and aromatic gingerbread bundt cake is infused with the warmth of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg, while a tangy lemon glaze adds a bright and refreshing contrast. Perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– Lemon glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch bundt pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Whisk together ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake.
Gingerbread Energy Bites with Oats
Kickstart your day with a sweet and satisfying treat that’s packed with wholesome ingredients. These bite-sized gingerbread energy balls are made with rolled oats, perfect for snacking on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped crystallized ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chocolate chips or chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, peanut butter, and honey. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in chopped crystallized ginger, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
4. Place the energy bites on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake energy balls are ready in just a few minutes of mixing.
Gingerbread Pudding with Whipped Cream
Cozy up with this classic dessert that combines the spices of gingerbread with the creaminess of whipped cream. This recipe is perfect for a cold winter’s night or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped crystallized ginger (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, sugar, melted butter, ground ginger, cinnamon, and salt.
3. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
4. Remove from heat and stir in flour until dissolved.
5. Pour into 4 individual ramekins or cups. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Just before serving, top each pudding with whipped cream (1 cup heavy cream, 2 tablespoons sugar) and chopped crystallized ginger if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gingerbread Granola with Dried Fruits
This sweet and savory granola is perfect for a cozy snack or breakfast on-the-go. The combination of gingerbread spices, crunchy nuts, and chewy dried fruits will transport you to a warm and inviting place.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, brown sugar, honey, molasses, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until lightly toasted.
5. Remove from oven and stir in dried cranberries and raisins.
6. Let cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Gingerbread Smoothie with Cinnamon and Banana
Warm up with a comforting Gingerbread Smoothie with Cinnamon and Banana! This seasonal treat combines the spices of gingerbread with creamy banana and cinnamon, perfect for a cozy morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 ripe banana
– 1/2 cup frozen pineapple
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Ice cubes (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine banana, pineapple, yogurt, and honey.
2. Add ginger and cinnamon; blend until smooth.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or spice level as needed.
4. Add ice cubes if desired for a thicker consistency.
5. Blend again to crush the ice.
Cooking Time: 2-3 minutes (depending on blender speed)
Enjoy your warm and comforting Gingerbread Smoothie with Cinnamon and Banana!
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 scrumptious gingerbread recipes! From classic cookies to decadent cheesecakes, and from soft loaves to sweet scones, there’s something for everyone. Try making a show-stopping gingerbread house with royal icing or indulging in spicy gingerbread latte. Or, go the quick-and-easy route with gingerbread pancakes or muffins. Whether you’re looking for vegan, gluten-free, or just plain delicious options, these recipes are sure to satisfy your gingerbread cravings. So go ahead and get baking!
Leave a Reply