Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies: The Ultimate Holiday Chew

There are many cookies that grace the holiday table, but few capture the essence of winter warmth quite like a perfect gingerbread treat. Forget the hard, cutout figures of your past; we are talking about a pillowy, chewy, deeply flavored, and aesthetically stunning dessert. Welcome to the magic of Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies.

These cookies take the rich, earthy depth of molasses and the fiery kick of traditional gingerbread spices ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg and marry them with the delightful texture of a classic crinkle cookie. The result is pure holiday perfection: a soft, moist interior wrapped in a dazzling, snow-dusted, crackled exterior. The high contrast of the dark, spiced dough against the thick powdered sugar coating is not just beautiful; it ensures every bite delivers a powerful punch of spice followed by comforting sweetness.

Achieving that signature crinkle is all about technique, specifically the double roll and a mandatory long chill. If you follow this detailed guide, you will consistently produce batches of cookies that look like they belong on the cover of a winter magazine. Whether you are hosting a cookie swap, filling a holiday platter, or simply craving that deep, cozy spice flavor, these Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are about to become your new seasonal obsession. They are incredibly easy to make, provided you respect the dough’s need for rest. Prepare your mixer, gather your spices, and get ready to bake the most irresistible winter cookie yet!

Why You’ll Love These Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

If your cookie journey usually involves chewy chocolate chip cookies or sweet sugar cookies, preparing these Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies offers a delicious, sophisticated departure. This recipe provides an unparalleled combination of flavor, aroma, and visual appeal that makes them stand out among standard holiday fare. You won’t just love them; you’ll crave them every time the temperature drops.

Unbeatable Texture and Chewiness

The foundation of a truly great cookie is texture, and these gingerbread crinkles nail it. They are specifically engineered to remain wonderfully soft and chewy in the center, contrasting perfectly with the slightly crisp exterior crust formed by the granulated sugar underneath the thick powdered sugar. The use of softened butter combined with molasses ensures the dough stays moist, creating that characteristic pillow-like bite that traditional, thin gingerbread often lacks. This textural mastery is what sets these Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies apart from the rest of the seasonal offerings.

The Perfect Spice Blend

We don’t hold back on the spices here. This recipe features a robust blend two full teaspoons of ginger, plus generous amounts of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. This isn’t a shy gingerbread flavor; it’s bold, warm, and deeply aromatic. The required three-hour (or overnight) chilling period is crucial because it allows the dry ingredients, especially the spices, to fully “bloom” and integrate into the fat and molasses, resulting in a more complex and intense flavor profile when baked. Every single bite is a comforting explosion of holiday flavor.

Visually Stunning Presentation

The signature “crinkle” is achieved when the heavily coated, chilled dough expands rapidly in the hot oven, cracking the powdered sugar shell. This white-on-dark contrast makes these cookies incredibly beautiful and festive. They are naturally self-decorated no fussy icing or piping bags required! For those who love simple, elegant baking, the dramatic crackle on these Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies is a major win. The look alone will impress guests at any holiday gathering or cookie exchange.

A Cozier Alternative to Traditional Crinkles

While chocolate crinkle cookies are a classic, these gingerbread variations offer a unique twist. They deliver the same addictive sugar coating and soft texture, but they introduce the complexity of deep molasses and warming spices. They satisfy the craving for both a festive spice cookie and a delightful, chewable crinkle, making them doubly appealing. If you’re looking to diversify your cookie repertoire beyond the standard chocolate or peppermint, the Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are the ideal choice. Plus, the dough is incredibly forgiving, allowing even novice bakers to achieve professional-looking results after the crucial chilling time.

Why You Should Try This Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe

Baking is often synonymous with comfort and tradition, and this recipe for Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies elevates both. Whether you are a dedicated holiday baker or someone who only breaks out the mixer once a year, this recipe offers tangible benefits that ensure success and maximum enjoyment.

The Secret is in the Molasses and the Chill

The secret weapon in achieving the perfect soft texture is the molasses. Molasses is a humectant, meaning it retains moisture, which is key to preventing the cookies from drying out during baking. We specifically use unsulfured molasses not the stronger blackstrap to provide deep color and flavor without bitterness. Combining the molasses with the careful measurement of butter and sugar ensures the dough has the right ratio of fat and moisture to remain soft. Furthermore, chilling the dough for a minimum of three hours (or up to two days) is non-negotiable. This step solidifies the fat, preventing the cookies from spreading too thinly, and guarantees the striking dome and crackle texture that defines genuine Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies.

Perfect for Make-Ahead Baking and Gifting

Need to get ahead of the holiday baking rush? This recipe is incredibly adaptable to a make-ahead strategy. You have several options: you can prepare the dough and chill it for up to 48 hours before rolling and baking, or you can scoop the dough balls, coat them in both sugars, and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer the sugared balls to an airtight container and bake them straight from frozen (add 2-3 minutes to the baking time). This versatility makes the Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies the perfect candidate for mass holiday production, freeing up time when the season gets hectic. They also package beautifully, making them ideal gifts for neighbors, teachers, and friends.

For those who love holiday flavors, be sure to also check out my recipe for Eggnog Bread with Glaze another festive and easily giftable treat that captures the spirit of the season.

A Highly Accessible Recipe

While the results look professional, the process of making these Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies is remarkably straightforward. It follows the standard creaming method, requiring basic pantry staples and spices that are usually on hand during the cooler months. There are no complicated techniques, special equipment (beyond a basic mixer), or challenging assembly steps. If you can measure, mix, and roll, you can master these cookies. We focus on low-and-slow mixing once the flour is added to ensure the cookies remain tender and do not develop tough gluten strands.

Exceptional Flavor Depth

Unlike plain sugar cookies or lightly flavored molasses cookies, these crinkles deliver a nuanced flavor experience. The blend of ginger, cloves, and nutmeg is highly potent. When baked, the warm aromas will completely fill your kitchen, creating an instant feeling of holiday cheer. The deep, dark color of the cookie, thanks to the molasses and spices, hints at the intense flavor within, providing a satisfyingly rich taste profile that stands up well alongside robust beverages like coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils for Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

To create the best batch of Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, precise measurements and quality ingredients are key. Pay attention to temperature using room temperature wet ingredients ensures smooth emulsification and a better texture. This recipe yields approximately 3 dozen cookies, making it perfect for sharing.

Detailed Ingredient List (The Building Blocks)

Dry Ingredients (The Structure and Spice)

• 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour: Essential for structure. Use the spoon-and-level method to ensure accuracy; too much flour will make the cookies dry.
• 2 teaspoons Ground Ginger: The star spice, providing warmth and a signature kick.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon: Pairs perfectly with ginger, adding complexity and sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cloves: Provides deep, pungent warmth; a little goes a long way.
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg: Adds a hint of earthy, traditional flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda: The leavening agent that helps the dough rise and contributes to the soft chew.
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt: Crucial for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the spice flavors.

Wet Ingredients and Fat (Moisture and Chew)

• 1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter: Must be softened to room temperature. This is essential for proper creaming with the sugar, incorporating air that keeps the cookies light.
• 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (for the dough): Used to aerate the butter during the creaming process, leading to a tender crumb.
• 1 large Egg: Also needs to be at room temperature. The egg acts as a binder and adds richness.
• 1/4 cup Unsulfured Molasses: Provides the classic dark color, rich flavor, and essential moisture for ultimate chewiness. Avoid Blackstrap Molasses, as its intense bitterness will overpower the delicate spices in the Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies.
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.

The Signature Coating (The Crinkle Effect)

The success of the crinkle relies on a double coating of sugar:

• 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar (for initial rolling): This layer adheres to the dough, preventing the powdered sugar from dissolving into the fat. It also provides a slight crunch on the exterior.
• 1 cup Confectioners’ Sugar (Powdered Sugar) (for final rolling): The heavy coating of powdered sugar is what cracks open as the cookie bakes and expands, creating the beautiful, snowy crinkle effect. Make sure the coating is very thick!

Essential Tools and Utensils for Success

While you can certainly make these by hand, a stand mixer greatly simplifies the process of creaming the butter and sugar, which is a key step in ensuring the lightness of these Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies.

1. Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Necessary for effectively creaming the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (Step 2). The paddle attachment is recommended.
2. Mixing Bowls (Large and Medium): One for the dry ingredients and one for combining the wet and dry elements.
3. Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is vital in baking, especially with spices and leavening agents.
4. Rubber Spatula: Essential for scraping down the sides of the bowl during mixing and folding in the dry ingredients gently.
5. Wire Whisk: Used to perfectly blend the dry ingredients, ensuring the spices and baking soda are evenly distributed.
6. Parchment Paper: Non-negotiable! Lining your baking sheets prevents sticking and ensures easy cleanup. It also helps the bottoms of the cookies bake evenly.
7. Cookie Scoop (1-inch or 1 Tablespoon): Using a scoop ensures every cookie is uniform in size, which guarantees they bake at the same rate. Consistency is key to the perfect crinkle.
8. Baking Sheets (2 Large): You will need at least two sheets to manage the quantity and allow proper cooling time between batches.
9. Wire Rack: For cooling the finished Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies after the initial rest on the baking sheet.
10. Shallow Bowls (2): Necessary for the double-rolling process one for granulated sugar and one for confectioners’ sugar.

Remember, the quality of your finished Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies is directly proportional to how well you measure your ingredients and how precisely you follow the temperature requirements. Room temperature ingredients blend far better, leading to a smoother, more emulsified dough.

Detailed Recipe Steps: Baking the Perfect Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

These instructions guide you through creating the wonderfully spiced dough, the crucial chilling period, and the technique required to achieve the signature crinkle effect on your Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies.

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients and Activate Spices

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons ground ginger, 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon cloves, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Use a whisk to thoroughly blend these ingredients. Tip: Whisking ensures the leavening agent (baking soda) and the potent spices are perfectly distributed throughout the flour, preventing uneven flavor pockets. Set this bowl aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar Until Fluffy

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or using a large bowl and a hand mixer, combine the 1 cup of softened butter and 3/4 cup of granulated sugar (for the dough). Beat the mixture on medium-high speed for approximately 3 to 4 minutes. You are looking for a significant color change; the mixture should become noticeably lighter in color and fluffy in texture. This process incorporates air, essential for a soft cookie. Stop the mixer frequently to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl, ensuring all ingredients are fully integrated.

Step 3: Integrate the Wet Flavor Components

Once the butter and sugar are perfectly creamed, beat in the large room-temperature egg until it is just combined. Next, introduce the flavor anchors: 1/4 cup unsulfured molasses and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat these additions in on low speed until they are fully incorporated. Crucial Tip: The mixture may appear slightly curdled or separated at this stage because of the liquid molasses. Do not worry; this is entirely normal. Continue mixing on low just until the deep color of the molasses is uniform throughout the butter mixture.

Step 4: Gradually Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Reduce the mixer speed to the lowest setting. Gradually add the reserved dry ingredient mixture (from Step 1) to the wet mixture. Mix only until the flour streaks have just disappeared. Do not overmix! Overmixing the dough once the flour is added develops gluten, resulting in tough, cakey cookies rather than the desired chewy texture of true Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies. The finished dough will be very thick, sticky, and deeply colored.

If you enjoy developing complex flavor profiles through spices, you might also like my recipe for Chocolate Gooey Butter Cookies, which offers a different but equally decadent texture.

Step 5: Chill the Dough (The Mandatory Step for Crinkles)

Transfer the sticky dough to a clean bowl. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the dough to prevent a dry crust from forming. This step is absolutely critical for the signature crinkle. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for a minimum of 3 hours, or ideally, overnight (up to 48 hours). Chilling solidifies the butter, allowing the cookies to hold their height and prevents excessive spreading, which is necessary for the dough ball to “crack” the powdered sugar coating during baking.

Step 6: Prepare the Baking Station and Coatings

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Set up your rolling station:

1. Place the 1/4 cup of granulated sugar in a small, shallow bowl.
2. Place the 1 cup of confectioners’ sugar (powdered sugar) in a separate, slightly deeper bowl.

Step 7: Roll and Double Coat the Cookies

Using a small cookie scoop or rolling the dough by hand, create uniform 1-inch balls (about 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie). Work quickly, as the dough softens fast at room temperature. The Double Roll Technique:

1. First Roll (Granulated Sugar): Roll the dough ball gently in the bowl of granulated sugar. This thin layer helps create a barrier and adds a slight crystalline texture.
2. Second Roll (Confectioners’ Sugar): Immediately transfer the ball and roll it generously and thickly in the confectioners’ sugar. Ensure the dough ball is completely obscured by a thick, heavy layer of powdered sugar. Do not gently dust them; press the sugar onto the ball to create a thick crust. This heavy coating is what causes the beautiful cracks as the cookie bakes.

Step 8: Bake the Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Place the heavily coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spread. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The exact time depends on your oven, but watch for these cues: the edges should be set, the cookies will have spread and developed the distinct crinkle pattern, and the centers should look soft but no longer wet. Do not overbake; pulling them out when they look slightly underdone guarantees that desirable soft and chewy center.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes. This cooling time allows them to firm up without breaking. Then, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, though they rarely last that long!

Tips and Variations for Mastering Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Achieving the perfect crinkle and the optimal chewy texture takes a little attention to detail. Use these tips to ensure your Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are flawless every time, and explore these variations to customize your holiday baking.

Common Baking Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Cookies Spread Too Much/No Crinkle

The primary reason for spreading is insufficient chilling time or working with dough that is too warm. If your cookies spread thin and flat, or if the powdered sugar melted instead of cracking, the dough was too warm.

• Fix: Ensure the dough is chilled for the full 3 hours (preferably overnight). If your kitchen is warm, place the prepared, coated dough balls back into the freezer for 10 minutes immediately before baking.

2. The Crinkle Isn’t Dramatic Enough

The depth of the crinkle depends on the thickness of the powdered sugar coating.

• Fix: You must aggressively coat the dough balls. The second sugar roll (confectioners’ sugar) needs to be dense the dough should look like a snowball, not merely dusted. Additionally, the initial roll in granulated sugar helps the powdered sugar adhere better, ensuring it doesn’t soak into the molasses-rich dough.

3. Cookies Are Dry or Cakey

This is usually the result of overmixing the dough after adding the flour, or overbaking.

• Fix: Mix the dry ingredients only until they are just incorporated. Pull the cookies out of the oven when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly puffed and very soft. They will finish setting on the cooling rack.

Scaling and Storage Advice

Since this recipe makes three dozen Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies, you might need tips for managing the volume:

• Freezing Dough: Scoop and double-roll the dough balls, then place them on a parchment-lined sheet and flash freeze for 1 hour. Transfer frozen balls to a freezer bag or container. They can be baked straight from the freezer; add 2-4 minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Allow cookies to cool completely. Freeze in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper, for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
• Storage: Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. Their flavor actually improves on day two as the spices continue to settle!

Delicious Variations for Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies (550 words)

Vegan Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

To make these cookies suitable for a vegan diet, replace the traditional butter and egg:

• Butter Substitute: Use 1 cup of quality vegan butter sticks (such as Miyoko’s or Earth Balance sticks) instead of dairy butter.
• Egg Substitute: Use 1 flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, allowed to sit for 5 minutes) or a commercial egg replacer like Bob’s Red Mill.

Ensure your dough remains properly chilled, as vegan fats tend to soften faster than dairy butter.

Gluten-Free Crinkle Cookies

Replace the all-purpose flour with an equal amount of a high-quality 1:1 gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum (such as King Arthur or Bob’s Red Mill). Gluten-free flour can sometimes result in a slightly drier dough, so you may need to add an extra teaspoon of molasses if the dough feels too crumbly after chilling. Maintaining the precise ratio of fat and moisture is key for these Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies to maintain their chew.

Citrus-Kissed Gingerbread Crinkles

For a brighter flavor, add the zest of one small orange or lemon to the wet ingredients during Step 3. The citrus zest brightens the deep spice notes and adds a lovely aromatic complexity. This is especially delicious if you plan on serving them with a cup of holiday cider.

For bakers who love tackling classic holiday flavors, you might enjoy my article covering My Favorite Pinterest Recipes, which features more cozy, spiced treats.

Chocolate Chip Crinkle Cookies

While purists love the spice, adding 1/2 cup of mini white chocolate chips or dark chocolate chips during Step 4 (folding them in just before the dough is covered for chilling) adds a layer of richness. White chocolate pairs especially well, mimicking the snowy appearance of the powdered sugar.

Nutritional Values and Benefits of Gingerbread Spices

While the Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are certainly a treat and should be enjoyed in moderation, the spices that give them their signature flavor offer several surprising nutritional benefits. (Note: The following nutritional values are estimations based on 36 servings per recipe and general ingredient composition.)

Estimated Nutritional Breakdown (Per Cookie)

Assuming 36 servings (1 cookie per serving):

• Calories: Approximately 140–160 kcal
• Total Fat: Approximately 7–9g
• Saturated Fat: Approximately 4–5g
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 20–22g (This includes the high sugar content from the dough and the heavy coating)
• Protein: Approximately 1g

It is important to remember that these Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are a high-carb, dessert indulgence, meant for enjoyment, not a primary source of nutrition. However, the quality of the ingredients matters.

The Health Benefits Hidden in the Spice Rack

Ginger (The Anti-Inflammatory Powerhouse)

Ginger is the most dominant spice in these cookies and offers significant benefits. It contains gingerol, a compound known for its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Ginger is historically used to aid digestion and help settle upset stomachs. By including two full teaspoons, we are maximizing both the flavor and the beneficial compounds present in these Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies.

Cinnamon (The Blood Sugar Regulator)

Cinnamon is widely known for its ability to improve insulin sensitivity and help regulate blood sugar levels, which is a helpful addition to a sugary dessert. It is packed with antioxidants and contributes to the overall warmth and comfort of the gingerbread flavor profile. The cinnamon in these cookies contributes both a rich aroma and beneficial compounds.

Cloves and Nutmeg (Antioxidant Support)

Cloves are incredibly potent, boasting one of the highest antioxidant capacities among all spices. They contain eugenol, which also has analgesic and antiseptic properties. Nutmeg adds warmth and is traditionally used to improve mood. While the quantities used in these cookies are small, they contribute essential antioxidants and the complex flavor profile that makes the Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies so rich.

Molasses (Mineral Content)

Unlike refined sugar, molasses (especially the light unsulfured variety used here) retains some minerals from the sugar cane. It is a source of iron, calcium, and potassium. While 1/4 cup spread across three dozen cookies doesn’t drastically change the nutritional profile, it is a healthier sweetener choice compared to pure white sugar, adding minerals along with its distinctive flavor and color that is vital for achieving the proper chew and hue of these delightful Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies.

Frequently Asked Questions About Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Conclusion: The Perfect Addition to Your Holiday Tradition

The Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are more than just a recipe; they are an experience. They fill your kitchen with the most intoxicating aroma of ginger and cinnamon, and they deliver a truly rewarding baking result a stunningly beautiful cookie with an unbelievably soft, chewy texture. This is the cookie that successfully merges the comforting flavor of traditional gingerbread with the irresistible texture of a powdered sugar crinkle.

We’ve covered every crucial step: from the careful blending of the robust spice mix to the non-negotiable step of chilling the dough to prevent spreading. By following the detailed instructions, especially the double-rolling technique that ensures a thick, cracking sugar crust, you are guaranteed to achieve that iconic snowy finish that elevates these cookies from simple treats to festive showstoppers. Remember that the quality of your finished Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies is dependent on the patience you show the chilling process this is where the magic truly happens.

Whether you’re looking for the ultimate dessert for your holiday cookie platter, a unique and delicious cookie for a swap, or just a comforting treat to enjoy with a warm drink, these gingerbread crinkles are the answer. They are perfect companions to winter evenings and ideal gifts for friends and family.

If you’ve enjoyed mastering the soft and chewy texture of these holiday cookies, don’t miss out on my guide to making Crispy Gingerbread Cookies for a contrasting texture delight. Give these Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies a try this season. Bake a batch, savor the spices, and share the joy! Let me know how your cookies turned out in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this recipe with fellow baking enthusiasts!

Soft and Spiced Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

Chewy, spiced gingerbread cookies rolled heavily in powdered sugar that crackle perfectly during baking, yielding a beautiful snowdrift look, perfect for holiday baking.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 11 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs 35 minutes mins

Servings: 36 cookies

Course: Dessert, Snack

Cuisine: American, Holiday

Calories: 130

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Dry Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 2 teaspoons Ground Ginger
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Ground Cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon Baking Soda
• 1/4 teaspoon Salt

Wet Ingredients and Fat

• 1 cup Unsalted Butter softened to room temperature (2 sticks)
• 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar for the dough
• 1 Large Egg room temperature
• 1/4 cup Unsulfured Molasses
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract

Coating

• 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar for rolling
• 1 cup Confectioners' Sugar for rolling (Powdered Sugar)

Equipment

• Stand Mixer (or Hand Mixer)
• Medium Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheets
• Wire Rack

Method

 

Preparing the Dough

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt. Set the dry mixture aside.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment (or using a large bowl and a hand mixer), beat the softened butter and 3/4 cup granulated sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg until just combined. Add the molasses and vanilla extract and beat on low speed until fully incorporated. The mixture may look slightly separated at this stage, which is normal.
4. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the reserved dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough once the flour is added. The finished dough will be thick and sticky.
5. Chill the Dough (Crucial Step): Transfer the dough to a clean bowl, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 3 hours, or preferably overnight. Chilling is necessary to allow the spices to bloom and to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Baking and Coating

1. Prepare Baking Station and Coatings: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. Place the 1/4 cup granulated sugar in a small, shallow bowl. Place the 1 cup confectioners' sugar in a separate, slightly deeper bowl.
2. Roll and Coat Cookies: Scoop the chilled dough using a small cookie scoop or roll into 1-inch balls (approximately 1 tablespoon of dough per cookie). First, roll the ball gently in the bowl of granulated sugar. Second, immediately transfer the ball and roll it generously in the confectioners' sugar. Ensure the dough ball is completely coated with a thick layer of powdered sugar.
3. Bake the Cookies: Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes. The cookies will spread and develop the distinct crinkle pattern, and the centers should look soft but set. Do not overbake.
4. Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store airtight at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Notes

For the best crinkles, make sure the dough is thoroughly chilled and the cookies are generously covered in the powdered sugar. If you prefer a darker, more intense flavor, you may use dark molasses, but avoid true blackstrap molasses as it can be overly bitter.