# These Soft and Chewy Gingerbread Cookies Have Earned the Title of My Favorite Holiday Cookie!
As the festive season approaches, the aroma of gingerbread in the air feels utterly enchanting. For many, gingerbread embodies the spirit of the holidays, and for me, it’s a passion that lasts all year long. Be it gingersnaps or fluffy ginger cookies, I simply cannot resist the soothing, warm fusion of ginger and cinnamon. Nonetheless, there’s something exceptionally wonderful about soft and chewy gingerbread cookies that elevates them to my number one holiday indulgence.
## The Charms of Gingerbread
The scent of gingerbread baking on a chilly day is delightfully cozy, instantly boosting moods and generating a sense of comfort. Gingerbread is a broad term that includes a variety of scrumptious delights, ranging from soft, cake-like loaves to crisp cookies ready for frosting. Yet, when it comes to comfort and nostalgia, nothing surpasses a soft and chewy gingerbread cookie.
These cookies are more than just a treat; they remind us of festive gatherings, cozy nights by the fire, and the happiness of baking with cherished ones. The interplay of spices produces a rich flavor spectrum that is both soothing and refreshing, making gingerbread a cherished selection during the holiday period.
## The Ultimate Recipe
This unique gingerbread cookie recipe, inspired by the New York Times and chef Sohla El-Waylly, is an absolute must-try. With a flawless spice balance, these cookies boast a fudgy, chewy core and crispy edges. If you appreciate gingerbread with a genuine ginger flavor, these cookies will not disappoint!
### Ingredients
– **Butter**: 14 tablespoons of unsalted butter, browned for added nuttiness.
– **Freshly Grated Ginger**: 3 tablespoons for a zesty kick.
– **Ground Spices**: Ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and freshly cracked black pepper.
– **Sugar**: Confectioners’ sugar for creaminess and granulated sugar for dusting.
– **Molasses**: Unsulphured molasses provides sweetness and richness.
– **Vanilla**: A tablespoon to boost the flavors.
– **Egg**: One large egg, brought to room temperature.
– **Flour**: 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
### Instructions
1. **Brown the Butter**: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it foams. Keep cooking until it reaches a deep brown color, about 3-5 minutes.
2. **Mix in Spices**: Take it off the heat, stir in the freshly grated ginger and ground spices, then let it cool in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes.
3. **Combine Ingredients**: Add confectioners’ sugar, molasses, vanilla, salt, and baking soda to the cooled butter and blend until smooth.
4. **Incorporate Egg**: Beat in the egg until the mixture turns pale and airy.
5. **Add Flour**: Gradually mix in the flour until combined, then chill the dough for at least 2 hours.
6. **Prepare for Baking**: Preheat the oven to 375°F and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Shape the chilled dough into balls and coat them in a blend of sugar and ground ginger.
7. **Bake**: Arrange the dough balls on the baking sheets and bake for about 10 minutes until set and lightly browned at the edges.
### Recipe Notes
– **Pepper Adjustment**: If black pepper isn’t your preference, lower the quantity to 1/2 teaspoon.
– **Salt Levels**: This recipe uses kosher salt, but feel free to modify it according to your taste.
– **Storage**: These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be frozen before baking. Bake from frozen for a few additional minutes.
## Additional Holiday Cookies to Consider
Although these gingerbread cookies have taken the lead in my holiday baking favorites, there’s a myriad of other cookies to discover during the festive season. Think about trying classic sugar cookies, peppermint bark, or a decadent chocolate chip cookie variation.
## Conclusion
Baking during the holiday season is a delightful experience that unites people. These soft and chewy gingerbread cookies are not only delectable but also a fantastic way to forge lasting memories. I hope you give this recipe a shot and savor the delightful gingerbread flavors this holiday season!
Happy baking!