As the holidays approach, our homes are filled with the warm and inviting aromas of baked goods. And what’s more festive than the sweet, spicy scent of gingerbread? Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for some inspiration to spice up your holiday season, we’ve got you covered with these 20 cozy gingerbread recipes that will fill your heart and home with joy.
From classic cookies to decadent cakes and indulgent treats in between, our collection features an array of delicious and comforting gingerbread creations perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying all to yourself (no judgments here!). So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of gingerbread wonder.
Classic Gingerbread Cookies
Classic Gingerbread Cookies Recipe
Warm up with these classic gingerbread cookies, infused with the cozy spices of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Perfect for snacking or gifting.
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 nutmeg
– 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
– Water, as needed
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, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 days.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gingerbread Loaf with Cream Cheese Frosting
Warm Up with a Classic: Gingerbread Loaf with Cream Cheese Frosting
This moist and flavorful gingerbread loaf is perfect for snacking or as a gift. Top it with a tangy cream cheese frosting for an added layer of delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugars and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Mix all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Spread over cooled loaf.
Soft Gingerbread Pancakes
Start your day with a warm and cozy breakfast that combines the comfort of gingerbread with the fluffiness of pancakes. These soft gingerbread pancakes are infused with the sweet and spicy flavors of crystallized ginger, making them a perfect treat for a chilly morning.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, chopped ginger, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, 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.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry. Flip and cook for another minute.
6. Serve warm with honey or maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch (depending on the size of the pancakes)
Gingerbread Cake with Caramel Drizzle
Warm up with a moist and aromatic gingerbread cake, topped with a rich caramel drizzle that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, ginger, baking soda, 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 baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool completely before drizzling with caramel sauce (recipe not included).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegan Gingerbread Muffins
Warm up your winter with these soft and spicy Vegan Gingerbread Muffins! Made with a blend of warming spices and plant-based goodness, they’re the perfect treat to brighten up any chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1/4 cup canola oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat your 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, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together non-dairy milk, canola oil, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars
These Gingerbread Cheesecake Bars combine the spices of traditional gingerbread with the creamy richness of a classic cheesecake. Perfect for the holiday season or any time you need a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs, sugar, and melted butter until combined. Press into a 9×9-inch baking dish.
3. Beat cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in chopped ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Gingerbread French Toast
Start your day off right with this delicious and unique recipe that combines the warmth of gingerbread with the comfort of French toast. This sweet treat is perfect for any time of year, but especially during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup of milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons of ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together melted butter, milk, eggs, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Serve warm and dust with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spiced Gingerbread Latte
Warm up with a Spiced Gingerbread Latte, perfect for chilly days or cozy nights by the fire.
Ingredients:
– 2 shots of strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup milk (whole, skim, or non-dairy)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Whipped cream and crystallized ginger for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew two shots of strong coffee and set aside.
2. In a small saucepan, warm the milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
3. Add butter, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the warmed milk. Whisk until smooth and fragrant.
4. Gradually add brown sugar while whisking until dissolved.
5. Pour the spiced milk into a large mug with the brewed coffee.
6. Top with whipped cream and crystallized ginger, if desired.
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Gingerbread Truffles
These bite-sized gingerbread truffles are an ideal treat for the holiday season, combining the warmth of spices with the richness of chocolate. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you can create these delightful morsels to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 8 ounces white chocolate chips or chopped candy canes (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar for coating
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Roll the mixture into small balls, about 3/4 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or until firm to the touch.
4. Melt white chocolate chips or chop candy canes (if using).
5. Dip each gingerbread ball into melted chocolate or sprinkle with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: None
Gingerbread Ice Cream
Satisfy your cravings for a sweet and spicy treat with this unique gingerbread ice cream recipe. The combination of crystallized ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg will transport you to the cozy atmosphere of a winter wonderland.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1 tsp crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugars have dissolved.
2. Remove from heat and stir in crystallized ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Let steep for 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
3. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Churn the mixture in an ice cream maker according to manufacturer’s instructions. Once churned, transfer to an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (steeping time) + ice cream maker time
Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies
Warm up with a batch of soft-baked Gingerbread Oatmeal Cookies, perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a festive holiday gift.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Optional: crystallized ginger for added spice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, ginger, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Gingerbread Bundt Cake
Warm up with the cozy aroma of freshly baked gingerbread, perfectly balanced with sweet and spicy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon ground ginger
– ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup dark brown sugar
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 12-cup bundt 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 eggs one at a time.
4. Add the chopped crystallized ginger and vanilla extract; mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Gingerbread Pancake Syrup
Gingerbread Pancake Syrup: Add a Warm, Spicy Twist to Your Morning Meal!
This sweet and spicy syrup is the perfect topping for pancakes, waffles, or French toast. With its rich ginger flavor and hint of molasses, it’s sure to become your new favorite breakfast addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1 tablespoon ground ginger
– 1 tablespoon crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, brown sugar, and corn syrup.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add ginger, crystallized ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Stir until well combined.
4. Continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the syrup has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gingerbread Donuts with Cinnamon Glaze
These soft and fluffy donuts are infused with the warmth of ginger and spices, topped with a sweet and sticky cinnamon glaze. Perfect for a cozy morning treat or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
– Cinnamon Glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flours, ginger, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, combine melted butter, sugar, and egg.
4. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pipe or drop dough into hot oil, about 1/4 cupfuls.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Drain donuts on paper towels.
Cinnamon Glaze:
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Whisk together ingredients until smooth. Drizzle over cooled donuts.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes to fry and glaze.
Gingerbread Granola
This homemade granola combines the warmth of gingerbread spices with the crunch of toasted oats, perfect for snacking or topping your favorite yogurt or oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
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, and spices.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together honey and oil. Pour over the dry mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Spread granola mixture onto prepared baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until lightly toasted.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gingerbread Tiramisu
A unique twist on the classic Italian dessert, this Gingerbread Tiramisu combines the warm spices of gingerbread with the creamy richness of mascarpone cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the brewed coffee for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. To assemble, start with a layer of ladyfingers in a large serving dish. You may need to trim them to fit the dish.
4. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
5. Sprinkle chopped crystallized ginger evenly over the mascarpone layer.
6. Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of mascarpone on top.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None required, as this is a chilled dessert.
Gingerbread Fudge
This classic fudge recipe gets a festive twist with the addition of warm gingerbread spices, creating a sweet and savory treat perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) white chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup (100g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Chopped crystallized ginger or chopped walnuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine white chocolate chips, corn syrup, sugar, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and butter. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C).
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Pour into prepared baking dish and let cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before cutting into squares and serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Gingerbread Scones with Maple Glaze
Perfect for a cozy breakfast or afternoon treat, these gingerbread scones are infused with the warmth of ginger and spices, topped with a sweet and sticky maple glaze. This recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 3/4 cup heavy cream
– Maple glaze: 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 1 tablespoon heavy cream
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, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in cream and stir until dough comes together.
5. Pat dough into a circle about 1 inch thick. Cut into wedges.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Let cool on wire rack before glazing with maple syrup mixture.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Gingerbread Hot Chocolate
Gingerbread Hot Chocolate is a delightful twist on the classic winter drink. This recipe combines rich hot chocolate with the warm, spicy flavors of ginger and cinnamon to create a cozy and inviting beverage.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk or dark chocolate milk
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream and crushed gingerbread cookies for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until steaming hot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, honey, ginger, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.
3. Gradually whisk the dry ingredients into the hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, whisking constantly, until the hot chocolate is smooth and creamy.
5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and crushed gingerbread cookies, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Gingerbread Bread Pudding
Warm up with a comforting slice of Gingerbread Bread Pudding! This sweet treat combines the spices of gingerbread with the richness of bread pudding, perfect for a cozy evening or holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale gingerbread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add the gingerbread cubes to the mixture and stir until they are evenly coated.
4. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and drizzle with melted butter.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 delicious gingerbread recipes perfect for the holiday season. From classic cookies to decadent cheesecake bars, and even vegan muffins, there’s something for everyone. Treat your loved ones to a warm and inviting Gingerbread Loaf with Cream Cheese Frosting or surprise them with Soft Gingerbread Pancakes. For a sweet treat, try Gingerbread Cake with Caramel Drizzle or indulge in Gingerbread Truffles. These recipes are sure to make your holiday season merry and bright!