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Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies
Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies are festive, fun, and perfect for holiday baking. Their warm spices and soft texture make them a crowd favorite!
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Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies are the perfect holiday treat, filled with festive flavors and sweetness. The soft, chewy texture pairs with a delightful spiced aroma, making each bite irresistible. Kids and adults alike will love decorating these cute cookies with icing and sprinkles. Bake a batch for your holiday parties, and they’ll be gone in no time!
This recipe is easy to make with step-by-step photos and directions to guide you. Plus, we’ve included pro tips, tricks, and answers to frequently asked questions for the best results!
More Recipes ⭐ Gingerbread Fudge | Turtle Cookies | Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies take just thirty minutes to make, making them perfect for busy holiday baking. Their soft, chewy texture combined with warm spices creates the perfect festive treat for parties, potlucks, or family gatherings. What makes this recipe so special is the fun decorating options that allow you to personalize each cookie. Bake these sweet and spiced cookies at home, and they’ll become a holiday tradition everyone loves!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make these Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies:
For the Cookies
- 2 cups cake flour
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ cup salted sweet cream butter, softened
- ¼ cup butter-flavored shortening
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large whole egg plus 1 large egg white
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Icing
- 2¼ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring
- ½ teaspoon almond flavoring
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- Royal blue food coloring gel (or blue nonpareils)
- Orange food coloring gel
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your cookies uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions.
Substitute Brown Sugar: Replace with coconut sugar for a slightly different sweetness and healthier option in your gingerbread cookies.
Instead of Molasses: Use honey or maple syrup for a milder sweetness in your Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies.
Substitute All-Purpose Flour: Swap with whole wheat flour to add a heartier texture and boost fiber in your cookies.
Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in mini chocolate chips for an extra sweet twist on classic gingerbread.
How to Make Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies
Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and the tips and tricks listed below. Let’s get started on making these fun and delicious Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies! You’ll love how easy and festive they are for the holidays.
FIRST STEP: In a large bowl, whisk together the cake flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and cream of tartar. Set dry ingredients aside.
SECOND STEP: Using a stand mixer, or a large mixing bowl and a hand mixer on medium-high speed, beat together the softened butter, butter-flavored shortening, and granulated sugar for 1½ to 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
THIRD STEP: Reduce the mixer speed to medium. Add the large whole egg and vanilla extract. Beat just until the egg is incorporated.
FOURTH STEP: Add the large egg white and mix until well combined.
FIFTH STEP: Slowly add in the flour mixture and mix just until the flour is incorporated and smooth.
SIXTH STEP: Cover tightly with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least 10 hours.
Pro Tip
It is very important that the dough chills for the bare minimum of ten hours. Twelve hours is even better. It may seem like a long time, but it is well worth the wait.
SEVENTH STEP: Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
EIGHTH STEP: Lightly flour your work surface.
NINTH STEP: Divide dough in half. Lightly flour the top of the dough.
TENTH STEP: Using a rolling pin, carefully roll the dough out to ¼-inch to ⅜-inch thickness.
ELEVENTH STEP: Lightly flour the edges of the gingerbread man cookie cutter and cut your cookies.
Pro Tip
The cookie dough is perfect for all different shapes of cookie cutters and any time of year.
TWELFTH STEP: Evenly space the gingerbread men, six per baking sheet.
THIRTEENTH STEP: Bake cookies for ten minutes. The edges of cookies should not brown at all.
Pro Tip
Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your cookies as the suggested baking time approaches.
FOURTEENTH STEP: Remove the cookies and allow them to rest until they are completely cooled. While they are cooling, make the icing.
For the Icing
FIRST STEP: Using a medium-sized mixing bowl, stir together the powdered sugar, light corn syrup, vanilla flavoring, almond flavoring, and milk. Continue to stir until no lumps are visible and the icing is smooth.
SECOND STEP: Using two small mixing bowls, measure ¼ cup of icing for the blue food color and two to 3three tablespoons for the orange food color.
THIRD STEP: Add four to five drops of royal blue and two to three drops of the orange color. Stir well.
FOURTH STEP: Using either a decorator’s bag and a small decorator’s tip (Wilton’s #5 tip), or a quart-size Ziploc with a small snip in a corner, carefully outline the edge of the gingerbread man with the untinted icing. Once outlined, carefully fill in the rest of the cookie. Repeat for the other gingerbread men.
Pro Tip
The easiest way to ice the cookie is to hold the bag straight up to the cookie to make the outline of icing. You can steady the piping hand with your other hand too if needed. Keep going around the outline, filling the icing in. Then use the toothpick to smooth it out. You don’t have to wait for the outline to dry before filling in the rest of the white icing.
FIFTH STEP: If you are using blue nonpareils for the eyes and buttons, place them before the icing begins to harden.
SIXTH STEP: If you are using the blue-tinted icing, repeat the process of filling the decorator’s bag fitted with the small tip or the snipped Ziploc bag.
Pro Tip
For adding the eyes, buttons, and nose, there are two options. You can add them right on top of the freshly piped icing, and they will sink just a little bit into the icing and make a smooth surface, or you can let the white icing harden to touch just a bit (maybe 30 minutes to 1 hour or even overnight depending on your house temperature) and then pipe the features on top, and they will be raised just a little.
SEVENTH STEP: Carefully dot the eyes and buttons for the gingerbread men.
EIGHTH STEP: Repeat the process of the piping bag or snipped Ziploc bag for the orange-tinted icing. Carefully make a small sideways triangle shape for the carrot nose.
NINTH STEP: Allow the gingerbread men cookies to completely dry
Pro Tip
The icing usually sets within just a few hours but is perfect if left to dry overnight.
How To Serve Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies
Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies are perfect for many occasions and seasons! Whether for a holiday party or family fun, these cookies will delight everyone. Here are a few ways to serve this festive treat.
Holiday Parties: These cookies are a hit at Christmas gatherings with their adorable shapes and festive flavors. Serve alongside hot cocoa or a creamy eggnog to keep the holiday spirit going.
Kids’ Decorating Activity: Kids love decorating these cute cookies with icing and sprinkles. Pair them with a fun dessert like chocolate fudge or a candy cane milkshake for extra fun.
Winter Potlucks: Gingerbread cookies bring a cozy touch to any winter potluck or gathering. Serve them with warm apple cider or pumpkin pie for a comforting combination everyone will enjoy.
Why You'll Love This Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies Recipe
Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies have captured the hearts of readers for so many reasons:
A Festive Favorite: These cookies perfectly blend warm spices like cinnamon and ginger, creating a flavor that screams holiday magic. The sweet, slightly chewy texture makes each bite unforgettable and perfect for the season.
Fun for All Ages: Decorating these cookies is as much fun as eating them! Kids and adults alike love personalizing each gingerbread man with icing and sprinkles, making holiday baking a family tradition.
Easy and Delicious: Despite their cute and detailed appearance, these cookies are simple to bake and decorate. The straightforward recipe ensures everyone can create adorable, delicious cookies without stress.
Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies are a timeless holiday treat that brings joy, warmth, and a little bit of creative fun to your kitchen!
Recipe FAQ
How do I keep Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies from spreading?
Chill the dough for at least thirty minutes before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
What’s the best thickness for Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies?
Roll the dough about ¼ inch thick for the perfect balance of softness and structure, making them easy to decorate.
How long should I bake Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies?
Bake for eight to ten minutes, or until the edges are slightly firm. Watch closely to avoid over-baking the cookies.
How do I decorate Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies?
Let the cookies cool completely before decorating with icing, sprinkles, or candy. This helps the decorations stick perfectly.
Serving FAQ
Can I serve Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies at parties?
Yes, these cookies are perfect for holiday parties! Their festive shapes and sweet flavors make them a crowd favorite.
How do I present Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies for a special occasion?
Arrange them on a festive platter with icing and sprinkles. They make an eye-catching and delicious centerpiece for any holiday event.
Can kids help decorate Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies?
Absolutely! Kids love decorating these cookies with icing and sprinkles. It's a fun, creative activity for family gatherings or playdates.
Are Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies suitable for gift-giving?
Yes, these cookies are perfect for holiday gift bags or boxes. Their festive look and homemade taste make them a thoughtful treat!
Storage FAQ
Follow the tips and tricks below for the best storage of your Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies. From making ahead to reheating, we’ve got you covered to keep them fresh and tasty!
Can I prepare Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the dough in advance. Wrap it tightly and store it in the fridge for up to three days.
What’s the best way to store baked Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies?
Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to a week.
Can I freeze Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies?
Yes, freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to three months. Decorate them after thawing for the best results.
How do I thaw and serve frozen Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies?
Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for a few hours. Once thawed, they’re ready to decorate and serve!
Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies
Gingerbread Man Sugar Cookies are festive, fun, and perfect for holiday baking. Their warm spices and soft texture make them a crowd favorite!
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Ingredients
Cookies
- 2 cups cake flour
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon cream of tartar
- ½ cup salted sweet cream butter (softened)
- ¼ cup butter-flavored shortening
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large whole egg
- 1 large egg white
- 3 teaspoons vanilla extract
Icing
- 2¼ cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- ½ teaspoon clear vanilla flavoring
- ½ teaspoons almond flavoring
- 2 to 3 tablespoons milk
- Royal blue food color gel (or blue nonpareils)
- Orange food color gel
DIRECTIONS
Cookies
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the cake flour, all-purpose flour, baking powder and cream of tartar. Set it aside.
- Using a stand mixer, or a large mixing bowl and a handheld mixer on medium-high speed, beat together the softened butter, butter flavored shortening and granulated sugar for 1½ to 2 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Reduce the mixer speed to medium. Add the large whole egg and vanilla extract. Beat just until the egg is incorporated.
- Add the large egg white and mix until well combined.
- Slowly add in the flour mixture and mix just until the flour is incorporated and smooth. Cover tightly and chill in the refrigerator overnight, or for at least 10 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line 2 baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lightly flour your working surface with flour.
- Divide the cookie dough in half. Lightly flour the top of the dough.
- Using a rolling pin, carefully roll the dough out to ¼ inch to ⅜ inch.
- Lightly flour the edges of the gingerbread man cookie cutter and cut your cookies.
- Evenly space the gingerbread men, 6 per baking sheet.
- Bake for 10 minutes. The edges should not brown at all.
- Remove the cookies and allow them to rest until they are completely cooled. While they are cooling, make the icing.
Icing
- Using a medium-sized mixing bowl, stir together the powdered sugar, light corn syrup, vanilla flavoring, almond flavoring, and milk. Continue to stir until no lumps are visible and the icing is smooth.
- Using 2 small mixing bowls, measure ¼ cup of icing for the blue food color and 2 to 3 tablespoons for the orange food color.
- Add 4 to 5 drops of the royal blue and 2 to 3 drops of the orange color. Stir well.
- Using either a decorator's bag and a small decorator's tip (Wilton’s #5 tip), or a quart-size Ziploc with a small snip in a corner, carefully outline the edge of the gingerbread man with the untinted icing. Once outlined, carefully fill in the rest of the cookie. Repeat for the other gingerbread men.
- If you are using blue nonpareils for the eyes and buttons, place them before the icing begins to harden.
- If you are using the blue-tinted icing, repeat the process of filling the decorator's bag fitted with the small tip or the snipped Ziploc bag.
- Carefully dot the eyes and buttons for the gingerbread men.
- Repeat the process of the decorators bag or snipped Ziploc bag for the orange-tinted icing.
- Carefully make a small sideways triangle shape for the carrot nose.
- Allow the cookies to completely dry.
Notes
- It is very important that the dough chills for a bare minimum of 10 hours. 12 hours is even better. It may seem like a long time, but it is well worth the wait.
- The cookie dough is perfect for all different shapes of cookie cutters and any time of year.
- Oven temperatures vary and may need to be recalibrated periodically to ensure they are accurate. Make sure to keep a close eye on your cookies as the suggested baking time approaches.
- The easiest way to ice the cookie is to hold the bag straight up to the cookie to make the outline of icing. You can steady the piping hand with your other hand, too, if needed. Keep going around the outline filling the icing in. Then use the toothpick to smooth it out. You don’t have to wait for the outline to dry before filling in the rest of the white icing.
- For adding the eyes, buttons, and nose, there are two options. You can add them right on top of the freshly piped icing, and they will sink just a little bit into the icing and make a smooth surface, or you can let the white icing harden to touch just a bit (maybe 30 minutes to 1 hour or even overnight depending on your house temp) and then pipe the features on top, and they will be raised just a little.
- The icing usually sets within just a few hours but is perfect if left to dry overnight.
Nutrition
Calories: 378kcal | Carbohydrates: 62g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 6g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 48mg | Sodium: 76mg | Potassium: 106mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 42g | Vitamin A: 280IU | Calcium: 36mg | Iron: 1mg
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