Description

Make classic gingerbread cookies with royal icing from scratch in under an hour. This tested recipe requires no chill time, making it perfect for last-minute holiday baking or school bake sales.

Ingredients

Scale

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup dark molasses
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
2 tablespoons meringue powder
3–4 tablespoons warm water
Food coloring gel (optional)

Instructions

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
Beat in the molasses, egg, and vanilla until combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined. Do not overmix.
Divide the dough in half. On a lightly floured surface, roll one half out to about ¼-inch thickness.
Cut out shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Re-roll scraps immediately.
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are firm but centers look slightly soft.
Let cookies cool on the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Whisk meringue powder and a little water until foamy. Add sifted powdered sugar and beat until smooth.
Add more water a teaspoon at a time until you reach a ‘flooding’ consistency.
Fill a piping bag with icing and pipe details onto the cooled cookies. Use a toothpick to pop air bubbles or spread icing evenly.

Notes

If your kitchen is hot (above 75°F/24°C), the dough may become sticky; chill for 15 minutes if needed. Ensure cookies are completely cool before icing to prevent melting. For vegan icing, substitute meringue powder with 3 tablespoons of whipped aquafaba. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American Holiday

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 80
Sugar: 8
Sodium: 120
Fat: 3
Saturated Fat: 1.5
Carbohydrates: 12
Fiber: 0.5
Protein: 1

Keywords: gingerbread cookies, royal icing, holiday baking, no chill dough, easy gingerbread, school bake sale cookies, Christmas cookies