Soft Gingerbread Cookies and Maple Glaze – Easy Kitchen Guide

When you think of soft gingerbread cookies drizzled with maple glaze, several delightful pairings come to mind. You might consider a hot cup of spiced chai or a creamy mug of cocoa. These warm beverages enhance the cozy flavors of gingerbread and make a comforting experience even better.

You can also serve your cookies with a side of ice cream. Vanilla or cinnamon ice cream complements the spices beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, a scoop of maple ice cream would take your cookie pairing to delightful new heights.

Another option is to pair the cookies with fresh fruit, such as sliced apples or pears. Their crispness provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the gingerbread.

So, grab your favorite drink and some ice cream or fruit. Let’s get baking!

Ah, gingerbread – the quintessential holiday treat. The smell of warm spices filling the house is enough to make anyone feel festive. In my kitchen, soft gingerbread cookies with maple glaze hold a special place during the colder months. It’s not just about the flavors; it’s about the memories.

I remember the first time I tried a soft gingerbread cookie. It was during a holiday gathering, and the cookies were chewy with that perfect spice balance. And then came the maple glaze. Drizzling it on top felt like a creative art project, and the sweet, creamy drizzle was the cherry on top.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through how to create these cookies from scratch. You’ll discover why this recipe is a hit, what makes them taste heavenly, and how to store them. You’ll gain insights that go beyond the ordinary, so you will nail this recipe perfectly. Let’s get started!

Why This Recipe Works?

Let me break down why this gingerbread cookie recipe is a crowd-pleaser:

1. The Texture Is Spot On: The combination of baking soda and the right amount of butter ensures that these cookies come out soft and chewy. No one likes a hard gingerbread cookie.

2. Flavorful Spice Blend: The thoughtful mix of ground ginger, cloves, and cinnamon offers depth while still allowing that ginger essence to shine through. You can adjust the spices to suit your taste!

3. Maple Glaze Magic: The maple glaze isn’t just an afterthought. It’s the cherry on top and adds a unique twist that sets these cookies apart from the rest. It’s just sweet enough to enhance without overpowering.

4. Easy to Prep: Don’t let the delicious end product intimidate you. You’ll find that this recipe is straightforward, perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike.

How Does It Taste?

Imagine sinking your teeth into a cookie that’s soft and velvety with every bite. It has just the right amount of spice to awaken your taste buds, with rich undertones of molasses that dance on your palate. As you savor it, the maple glaze adds a creaminess that brings all the flavors together. It’s comforting yet exciting, warm yet inviting – an explosion of warmth in every scrumptious mouthful.

You will also like the following Dessert recipes!

• How to make Whataburger Honey Butter Chicken Biscuit
• Best Browned Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Copycat Chocolate Chip Cookie Brownie

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze Variations?

Something unique about this recipe lies in the balance of ingredients and the technique used. Unlike many variations, I’ve chosen to incorporate a pinch of pure vanilla extract into the glaze. It adds depth and a subtle flavor that rounds out the sweetness without overwhelming the gingerbread herself.

Instead of traditional white sugar, we use light brown sugar to enhance the hint of molasses. This small switch adds a caramel-like richness you won’t find in other versions.

Finally, while many recipes don’t devote much attention to the cookie’s edges, this recipe ensures that the cookies bake evenly and maintain their soft, chewy texture throughout. No more crunchy edges – just pure gooey delight!

The Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful soft gingerbread cookies:

For the Gingerbread Cookies:

• 2 1/4 cups plain flour (300 grams)
  
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, brought to room temperature
  
• 1 cup white cane sugar
  
• 1 large egg
  
• 1/3 cup dark molasses for a deeper, richer flavor
  
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
  
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
  
• 1–1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger (adjust to taste)
  
• Extra granulated sugar for coating
  
• 3/4 teaspoon fine sea salt (omit if using salted butter)
  

For the Maple Glaze:

• 1 1/2 cups sifted confectioners’ sugar (180 grams)
  
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
  
• 2 tablespoons whole milk (adjust for texture)
  
• 1 tablespoon real maple syrup
  
• 1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  
• Small pinch of sea salt
  

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent your cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together the softened unsalted butter and white cane sugar. Beat them until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. It should take about 3-4 minutes. This adds air to your batter, keeping those cookies light.

Step 3: Add the Egg and Molasses

Once creamed, add in the large egg and dark molasses. Mix until fully incorporated. The combination of this adds flavor and moisture to our dough.

Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the plain flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground ginger, and fine sea salt. Mixing them separately helps distribute the baking soda and spices evenly throughout the flour.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir the ingredients until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this may lead to denser cookies.

Step 6: Scoop and Shape

Using a cookie scoop or two spoons, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Each cookie should be about 1 tablespoon in size. Leave space between them, as they will spread a bit while baking.

Step 7: Sprinkle with Sugar

For that added sweetness, sprinkle some extra granulated sugar over the cookie dough balls. This gives your cookies a nice texture and sweetness on the surface.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes. For a soft cookie, you’ll want to remove them from the oven right before they appear perfect. They will continue to cook slightly after removing them from the oven.

Step 9: Cool Cookies

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Make the Maple Glaze

While the cookies cool, prepare the maple glaze by whisking together sifted confectioners’ sugar, melted butter, milk, maple syrup, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Adjust the milk based on how thick or thin you want it.

Step 11: Drizzle the Glaze

Once the cookies are cooled, drizzle the maple glaze over each cookie. Allow the glaze to set before enjoying your scrumptious treats.

Notes

Here are some handy tips for success:

Chill Dough: If you find the dough too sticky, chilling it for 30 minutes works wonders.
Keep an Eye on Baking Time: Ovens vary, so check on your cookies a minute or two before the suggested baking time.
Flavor Tweaks: Feel free to adjust the spices to match your preference or family favorites.
Don’t Skip the Glaze: The glaze makes a significant difference in flavor, so make sure to include it!
Extra Storage: If you want a crisper cookie, bake a minute or two longer.

Nutrition Information

Per cookie (based on 24 cookies):

• Calories: 150
  
• Total Fat: 6g
  
• Saturated Fat: 4g
  
• Cholesterol: 15mg
  
• Sodium: 70mg
  
• Carbohydrates: 22g
  
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
  
• Sugars: 10g
  
• Protein: 1g
  

How Do You Store These Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze?

To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. It’s best to layer them with parchment paper in between to prevent them from sticking together. They should stay fresh for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each cookie in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They can last for up to three months in the freezer. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge again!

Sides for Soft Gingerbread Cookies with Maple Glaze

Here are some delightful suggestions that complement your cookies:

1. Hot Beverage: A steaming cup of chai or coffee enhances the spicy notes of ginger. This classic pairing is perfect for cozying up on chilly nights.

2. Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla or maple ice cream adds a cold contrast to warm cookies. The smooth texture and sweetness round out the flavors beautifully.

3. Fresh Fruit: Sliced apples or pears provide a refreshing balance. The crispness of the fruit and the soft texture of the cookie make for an enjoyable combination.

What Alternatives Can You Use For the Ingredients If They Are Not Present In Your Kitchen?

If you’re missing any ingredients, don’t fret! Here are some substitutes you can use:

1. Flour: If you’re out of plain flour, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend. Just note that the texture may differ slightly.

2. Butter: Unsalted butter can be subbed with coconut oil or vegetable oil. If you prefer dairy-free, keep in mind that the flavor might change a bit.

3. Molasses: If molasses isn’t available, honey or agave syrup can be a suitable alternative. It won’t have the same rich flavor, but it will add sweetness.

4. Maple Syrup: For the glaze, you can use corn syrup or agave syrup if maple isn’t handy. It’ll lack that unique maple flavor but will still create a nice glaze.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Soft gingerbread cookies with maple glaze deserve a top spot on your holiday baking list. By following this comprehensive guide, you can create delightful cookies that are sure to be the star of any gathering. The combination of warm spices, chewy texture, and a sweet glaze creates a treat that resonates with nostalgia and festive cheer.

With intriguing pairings and easy customization options, these cookies can fit into your culinary repertoire throughout the year. So, gather your ingredients, turn up your favorite tunes, and bring some magic into your kitchen with these heavenly soft gingerbread cookies. Enjoy every delicious bite!

You’ll also like these latest recipes!

• 5 Minute Magic Green Sauce  Recipe
• How to make Raisin Bran Muffins 
• Peanut Soba Noodle Salad