20 Delicious Gingerbread Recipes for the Holidays

There’s something magical about the warm, spicy aroma of gingerbread that instantly makes the holidays feel cozier. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, our collection of 20 Delicious Gingerbread Recipes is sure to inspire your festive baking. From classic cookies to innovative twists on the traditional, these recipes are perfect for sharing with loved ones. Let’s dive into the sweet, spiced world of gingerbread together!

Classic Gingerbread Cookies

Nothing says holiday cheer like the warm, spicy aroma of Classic Gingerbread Cookies baking in the oven. These timeless treats are perfect for decorating and sharing with loved ones.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp ground ginger, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, and 1/4 tsp salt. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, beat 3/4 cup unsalted butter and 3/4 cup brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add 1 large egg, 1/2 cup molasses, and 1 tsp vanilla extract, mixing well.
3. Gradually blend in the dry ingredients until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 2 hours.
4. Preheat oven to 350°F. On a floured surface, roll out dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes with cookie cutters.
5. Place cookies on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake for 8-10 minutes, until edges are firm. Cool on wire racks before decorating.

The deep molasses flavor and spicy ginger make these cookies a standout, with a soft yet sturdy texture ideal for intricate decorations.

Tip: For extra sparkle, brush cookies with a light egg wash before baking and sprinkle with coarse sugar.

Gingerbread House with Royal Icing

There’s nothing quite like the magic of building your own gingerbread house, and this recipe makes it as delightful to create as it is to display.

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 large egg
• 2/3 cup molasses
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp meringue powder
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a bowl, whisk together 3 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp ground ginger, 1 tbsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground cloves, and 1/2 tsp salt.
2. In a separate bowl, cream together 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 1 large egg and 2/3 cup molasses until well combined.
3. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients to form a stiff dough. Divide the dough in half, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into desired house shapes and bake on parchment-lined sheets for 12-15 minutes until firm. Cool completely.
5. For the royal icing, beat together 3 cups powdered sugar, 2 tbsp meringue powder, and 1/4 cup water until stiff peaks form. Use to assemble and decorate your gingerbread house.

The secret to this gingerbread house’s charm lies in the spicy, molasses-rich dough that holds its shape beautifully, making it as sturdy as it is tasty.

Tip: Let the icing set for an hour before adding heavy decorations to ensure your gingerbread house stands proud all season long.

Soft Gingerbread Loaf

There’s nothing quite like the warm, spicy aroma of gingerbread baking in the oven. This Soft Gingerbread Loaf is moist, flavorful, and just the right amount of sweet, making it a perfect treat for any time of day.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 cup hot water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in 1/2 cup molasses and 1 large egg until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp ground cloves.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with 1/2 cup hot water, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

The secret to this gingerbread’s irresistible softness? The hot water, which helps to bloom the spices and create a tender crumb. It’s a simple trick with a big payoff.

Tip: For an extra special touch, drizzle the cooled loaf with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a little milk.

Gingerbread Pancakes with Maple Syrup

Wake up to the warm, spiced aroma of gingerbread pancakes, a festive twist on the breakfast classic that’s sure to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• Maple syrup, for serving

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/4 tsp salt, 2 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground cloves.
2. In another bowl, beat 1 large egg, then stir in 1/4 cup molasses, 1 cup buttermilk, and 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter until well combined.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined; the batter will be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease with butter. Pour 1/4 cup batter for each pancake, cooking until bubbles form on the surface and edges look set, about 2 minutes. Flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
5. Serve warm with maple syrup.

The molasses and spice blend give these pancakes a deep, complex flavor that’s reminiscent of your favorite gingerbread cookies, making them a standout breakfast option.

Tip: For extra fluffy pancakes, let the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking to allow the baking powder to activate.

Gingerbread Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting

These Gingerbread Muffins with Cream Cheese Frosting are a cozy twist on a holiday classic, perfect for warming up your winter mornings.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup hot water
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground cloves.
3. In another bowl, mix 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup molasses, and 1 large egg until smooth. Gradually stir in 1 cup hot water.
4. Combine wet and dry ingredients, stirring just until mixed. Divide batter among muffin cups.
5. Bake for 20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
6. For frosting, beat 4 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup powdered sugar, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract until fluffy. Spread over cooled muffins.

The molasses and spice blend gives these muffins a deep, rich flavor that pairs beautifully with the tangy cream cheese frosting.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top of the frosting before serving.

Gingerbread Cheesecake

Imagine the cozy spices of gingerbread meeting the creamy dreaminess of cheesecake—this Gingerbread Cheesecake is a holiday game-changer.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 24 oz cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup molasses

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 325°F. Mix graham cracker crumbs, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, melted butter, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/8 tsp ground cloves. Press into a 9-inch springform pan.
2. Beat cream cheese and brown sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla, molasses, remaining 1 tsp ginger, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and 1/8 tsp cloves. Pour over crust.
3. Bake for 50 minutes until center is just set. Cool in oven with door ajar for 1 hour, then refrigerate overnight.

The molasses adds a deep, rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the spicy gingerbread crust, making every bite a festive delight.

Tip: For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water before cutting.

Gingerbread Latte

Warm up your winter mornings with this homemade Gingerbread Latte, a cozy twist on your regular coffee that’s bursting with festive flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 cup strong brewed coffee
• 1 cup milk (any kind)
• 2 tbsp molasses
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• Whipped cream, for topping
• A pinch of ground nutmeg, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the milk, molasses, brown sugar, ground ginger, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is hot but not boiling.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Divide the brewed coffee between two mugs, then pour the spiced milk mixture over the coffee.
4. Top each latte with whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground nutmeg.

The magic of this latte lies in the molasses and spice blend, creating a deep, rich flavor that’s perfectly balanced with the creaminess of the milk.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, add a cinnamon stick to each mug before serving.

Gingerbread Truffles

These Gingerbread Truffles are a delightful twist on the classic holiday flavor, combining the warmth of gingerbread with the creamy richness of chocolate for a bite-sized treat that’s irresistibly festive.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups gingersnap cookie crumbs
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 8 oz semi-sweet chocolate, chopped
• 1 tbsp coconut oil

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, mix together the gingersnap crumbs, cream cheese, powdered sugar, ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves until well combined.
2. Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze for 30 minutes to firm up.
3. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the semi-sweet chocolate and coconut oil together in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth.
4. Using a fork, dip each frozen ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let the excess drip off before returning it to the parchment paper.
5. Chill the truffles in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.

The magic of these truffles lies in their perfect balance of spicy gingerbread and smooth chocolate, creating a sophisticated flavor profile that’s surprisingly simple to achieve.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, sprinkle the truffles with a pinch of cinnamon or crushed gingersnaps before the chocolate sets.

Gingerbread Ice Cream

Who says gingerbread is just for cookies? This Gingerbread Ice Cream brings all the warm, spiced flavors of the holiday season into a creamy, dreamy dessert.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 3/4 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 5 large egg yolks
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, milk, brown sugar, molasses, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Heat until the mixture is steaming but not boiling, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks. Slowly pour about 1 cup of the warm cream mixture into the yolks, whisking constantly to temper them. Then, pour the yolk mixture back into the saucepan.
3. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon (about 170°F on a thermometer).
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl to ensure smoothness.
5. Cover and chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
6. Pour the chilled mixture into an ice cream maker and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually about 20-25 minutes.
7. Transfer the ice cream to a freezer-safe container and freeze until firm, about 2 hours.

The magic of this ice cream lies in its perfect balance of spicy and sweet, with the molasses adding a deep, rich undertone that’s irresistibly cozy.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon or crumbled gingerbread cookies on top.

Gingerbread French Toast

Wake up to the cozy aromas of gingerbread and maple syrup with this Gingerbread French Toast, a festive twist on a breakfast classic.

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 8 slices of thick-cut brioche bread
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Additional maple syrup for serving

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together 4 large eggs, 1 cup whole milk, 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground ginger, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg until well combined.
2. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt 1 tbsp unsalted butter.
3. Dip each slice of brioche bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side.
4. Place the soaked bread in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Repeat with the remaining slices, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.
6. Serve warm with additional maple syrup.

The secret to this French toast’s deep, spiced flavor is the blend of ginger, cloves, and nutmeg, which mimics the taste of traditional gingerbread. It’s a holiday morning game-changer.

Tip: For an extra indulgent version, top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar.

Gingerbread Pudding

There’s something irresistibly cozy about gingerbread pudding, a dessert that wraps you in warmth with every spoonful. Here’s how to make this comforting treat at home.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup hot water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch square baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, and 1/4 tsp salt.
3. Stir in 1/2 cup molasses, 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, and 1 large egg until well combined.
4. Gradually add 1 cup hot water to the batter, mixing until smooth.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

The magic of this gingerbread pudding lies in its moist, dense texture and the deep, spicy flavors that meld together beautifully. It’s a dessert that feels like a hug in a bowl.

Tip: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Gingerbread Biscotti

These Gingerbread Biscotti are a delightful twist on the classic Italian cookie, infused with warm spices and a hint of molasses for that unmistakable holiday flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/4 tsp salt, 2 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground cloves.
3. In a large bowl, beat 1/4 cup unsalted butter and 3/4 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add 1 large egg, 1/4 cup molasses, and 1 tsp vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough in half and shape each into a log about 12 inches long. Place on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F.
7. Slice the logs diagonally into 1/2-inch thick slices. Place the slices cut side down on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes per side, until crisp.

The double baking gives these biscotti their signature crunch, while the molasses and spices pack a flavorful punch that’s perfect with your morning coffee or as an afternoon treat.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, dip the cooled biscotti in melted white chocolate and sprinkle with cinnamon.

Gingerbread Scones

These gingerbread scones are the perfect blend of spicy and sweet, with a tender crumb that’s irresistible straight from the oven.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
3. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the molasses, milk, egg, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined.
6. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface, knead gently a few times, then pat into a 1-inch thick circle.
7. Cut into 8 wedges, place on the prepared baking sheet, and bake for 12-15 minutes until firm to the touch.

The molasses not only adds depth of flavor but also ensures these scones stay wonderfully moist. Enjoy them warm with a dollop of whipped cream or your favorite jam.

Tip: For extra sparkle, brush the tops with a little milk and sprinkle with coarse sugar before baking.

Gingerbread Cupcakes

These gingerbread cupcakes are a cozy twist on the classic holiday flavor, perfect for sharing at your next gathering or enjoying with a cup of tea.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup hot water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/4 tsp ground cloves.
3. In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add 1/2 cup molasses and 1 large egg, beating until well combined.
4. Alternately add the dry ingredients and 1/2 cup hot water to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared muffin cups, filling each about 2/3 full.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow the cupcakes to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

The molasses and spice blend in these cupcakes creates a deep, rich flavor that’s perfectly balanced with a tender crumb. They’re a delightful nod to traditional gingerbread in a more shareable form.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, top these cupcakes with a simple cream cheese frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Gingerbread Smoothie

Warm up your mornings with this spiced Gingerbread Smoothie, blending the cozy flavors of gingerbread into a creamy, drinkable treat.

Ingredients

• 1 frozen banana, sliced
• 1/2 cup vanilla Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
• 1 tbsp molasses
• 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup ice cubes

Instructions

1. In a blender, combine the frozen banana, vanilla Greek yogurt, almond milk, molasses, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and vanilla extract.
2. Blend on high until smooth, about 1 minute.
3. Add the ice cubes and blend again until the smoothie is thick and creamy, about 30 seconds more.

This smoothie stands out with its rich molasses depth and a spice blend that perfectly mimics homemade gingerbread, all while being effortlessly sippable.

Tip: For an extra ginger kick, add a small piece of fresh ginger or a pinch of ground cloves to the blender.

Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies

These Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies are the perfect blend of spicy and sweet, with a chewy texture that makes them irresistible.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, beat together 1 cup unsalted butter, 1 cup packed brown sugar, and 1/4 cup molasses until light and fluffy. Beat in 1 large egg until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats, 1 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 2 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp ground cloves.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Let cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

The molasses and spices give these cookies a deep, warm flavor, while the oats add a delightful chewiness that sets them apart from traditional gingerbread cookies.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, drizzle the cooled cookies with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk.

Gingerbread Layer Cake

Nothing says holiday cheer like a spiced gingerbread layer cake, perfectly moist with a rich molasses depth that’s irresistible.

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup molasses
• 1 cup hot water

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1/2 tsp ground cloves, and 1/2 tsp salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat 1/2 cup unsalted butter and 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add 1 large egg and beat well. Stir in 1 cup molasses.
4. Alternately add the flour mixture and 1 cup hot water to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined.
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely.

The magic of this cake lies in the balance of spices and molasses, creating layers that are as flavorful as they are tender.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, sandwich the layers with cream cheese frosting and dust the top with a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Gingerbread Donuts

These Gingerbread Donuts are a cozy twist on a classic, blending warm spices with a soft, cakey texture that’s perfect for holiday mornings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg
• 2 tbsp molasses
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a donut pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, and 1/4 tsp salt.
3. In another bowl, mix 1/2 cup buttermilk, 1 large egg, 2 tbsp molasses, 2 tbsp melted unsalted butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined.
5. Spoon the batter into the prepared donut pan, filling each mold about 3/4 full.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let the donuts cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

The molasses and spice blend in these donuts creates a deep, rich flavor that’s irresistibly aromatic, making them a standout at any brunch table.

Tip: For an extra festive touch, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk, then sprinkle with cinnamon.

Gingerbread Waffles

Wake up to the warm, spicy aroma of gingerbread waffles, a festive twist on the classic breakfast favorite that’s sure to delight your senses.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1/2 tsp salt, 2 tsp ground ginger, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground cloves, and 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg.
3. In another bowl, beat 2 large eggs, then stir in 1/4 cup molasses, 1 3/4 cups buttermilk, and 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour the batter onto the preheated waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crisp, about 4-5 minutes.

The secret to these waffles’ irresistible appeal lies in the molasses, which adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that perfectly balances the spices.

Tip: For extra fluffy waffles, let the batter rest for 5 minutes before cooking.

Gingerbread Hot Chocolate

Warm up your winter evenings with this spiced Gingerbread Hot Chocolate, a cozy twist on the classic that’s sure to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• Whipped cream and cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk and heavy cream over medium heat. Heat until warm but not boiling, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Whisk in the unsweetened cocoa powder, packed brown sugar, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg until fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
3. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the hot chocolate is steaming and slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and a cinnamon stick if desired.

The blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves gives this hot chocolate a deep, spiced flavor that’s reminiscent of freshly baked gingerbread, making it a festive treat that stands out from the usual.

Tip: For an extra indulgent version, swap the heavy cream with coconut milk and add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 20 delicious gingerbread recipes inspires your holiday baking! From classic cookies to creative twists, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t forget to try your favorites, share your thoughts in the comments, and pin this article to your Pinterest boards for easy reference. Happy baking, and may your holidays be as sweet as gingerbread!

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