Gingerbread Crinkles Recipe: The Easiest Holiday Cookies
There’s something magical about the smell of gingerbread baking during the holidays. It’s the cozy scent of family, festive cheer, and snowy winter days. But let’s be honest—traditional gingerbread cutouts can sometimes feel like a chore. That’s why this gingerbread crinkles recipe is a lifesaver. All the classic gingerbread flavor you love, without the fuss of rolling and cutting dough. Plus, these cookies make your kitchen smell like a Hallmark movie scene.
Whether you’re hosting a cookie swap, need a sweet treat for the kids, or just want to indulge in a little holiday nostalgia, these gingerbread crinkles deliver every time.
Why You’ll Love This Gingerbread Crinkles Recipe
Gingerbread crinkles strike the perfect balance of soft, chewy centers with crackly powdered sugar exteriors. Imagine biting into a tender, spiced cookie that tastes like a warm hug—what more could you want during the holidays?
- No-fuss preparation: Skip the rolling pins and cookie cutters.
- Full gingerbread flavor: With molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, these cookies are bursting with cozy spice.
- Holiday-ready: They look beautifully festive with their crinkled tops dusted in powdered sugar.
Ingredients for Gingerbread Crinkles
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these holiday-ready cookies:
- 3/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2 1/2 cups flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1+ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1+ teaspoon powdered ginger
- 1+ teaspoon cinnamon
- Powdered sugar (for rolling)
Tip: Use freshly ground nutmeg and good-quality molasses for the richest flavor.
How to Make Gingerbread Crinkles
Follow these simple steps for cookies that will make you the star of any holiday gathering:
1. Cream the butter and sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add egg and molasses
Mix in the egg and molasses until the mixture is light and airy. This step helps create a soft, chewy cookie.
3. Incorporate the spices and baking soda
Add the baking soda, nutmeg, powdered ginger, and cinnamon. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
4. Slowly mix in the flour
Gradually add the flour, mixing until you have a soft, pliable dough. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Chill the dough
Refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour. Chilling makes the dough easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
6. Form and coat the cookies
- Roll the chilled dough into 1- to 1.5-inch balls.
- Roll each ball generously in powdered sugar until fully coated.
- Let the cookies sit for a few minutes, then roll them in powdered sugar again for that beautiful crackle effect.
7. Bake to perfection
Place the coated dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes. The cookies should look set but still soft in the center.
8. Cool and enjoy
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
The Secret to Perfect Gingerbread Crinkles
The double powdered sugar coating is the trick to achieving those iconic crinkles. By letting the cookies rest for a minute before re-rolling them in sugar, you ensure they bake with a gorgeous, snowy finish.
Tips and Variations
- Add a twist: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top before baking for a sweet-and-salty combo.
- Extra festive: Mix in white chocolate chips or finely chopped candied ginger for added texture and flavor.
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days. They also freeze beautifully—just reheat them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Why Gingerbread Crinkles Make the Holidays Special
There’s something about baking gingerbread that feels timeless—like you’re tapping into generations of holiday tradition. These gingerbread crinkles capture that magic without any stress. They’re a little nostalgic, a little indulgent, and oh so festive. Plus, they make your house smell like a gingerbread wonderland, which is basically the best free gift you can give yourself.
Conclusion
This gingerbread crinkles recipe is proof that holiday baking doesn’t have to be complicated to be magical. With their soft, chewy centers and crinkly powdered sugar tops, these cookies are guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite.
So grab your apron, mix up a batch, and share the love (or sneak a few with your afternoon coffee—I won’t tell). After all, the holidays are about slowing down, baking something special, and savoring every sweet, spiced bite.
Happy baking!
