Get ready to transform your kitchen into a winter wonderland with these irresistible Maple Gingerbread Men Cookies that will make your taste buds dance and your holiday spirit soar! Imagine biting into a perfectly spiced cookie that combines the warmth of traditional gingerbread with the rich, smooth sweetness of pure maple syrup. These aren't just cookies—they're edible memories that will have everyone from kids to grandparents begging for more. Whether you're looking to create a festive treat for Christmas, a cozy weekend baking project, or a delightful gift that shows how much you care, these gingerbread men are about to become your new favorite holiday tradition!
Ingredients
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, salt, and baking soda until well combined and evenly distributed.
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the maple syrup and egg to the butter mixture, beating until smooth and fully incorporated.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
- Divide the dough into two equal portions, flatten each into a disk, and wrap separately in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to develop and the dough to firm up.
- When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Remove dough from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften slightly.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to approximately 1/4 inch thickness. Use gingerbread man cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
- Carefully transfer cut-out cookies to prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden and cookies are set but still soft in the center.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Decorate with royal icing, colored sugar, or small candies once cookies are completely cooled.
Tips
- Chill Out: Don't skip the refrigeration time! Chilling the dough for at least 2 hours helps prevent spreading and creates a more defined cookie shape.
- Flour Power: When rolling out the dough, keep your surface lightly floured to prevent sticking, but don't overdo it—too much flour can make cookies dry.
- Even is Key: Roll the dough to a consistent 1/4 inch thickness to ensure uniform baking and a perfect texture.
- Watch the Clock: Keep a close eye on baking time. These cookies go from perfect to overdone quickly—10-12 minutes is your sweet spot!
- Cool Completely: Let cookies cool entirely before decorating to prevent icing from melting and ensure a clean, professional look.
- Storage Tip: Store in an airtight container with parchment between layers to keep them fresh for up to a week.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
