Ingredients
For the Gingerbread Dough


















For the Icing






Instructions
Step 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and honey. Add the large egg and mix until smooth. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, kneading it by hand until a smooth dough forms.
Step 2
Once your dough is ready, shape it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors to develop and makes rolling out easier.
Step 3
Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit). After chilling, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until it is about 0.5 centimeters (1/4 inch) thick. Use cookie cutters to shape your gingerbread into festive designs.
Place the cutouts onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow them to cool on a wire rack before decorating.
Step 4
While the gingerbread is cooling, prepare your icing by whipping the egg white until it becomes frothy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and lemon juice, mixing until you achieve a thick, smooth consistency suitable for piping.
Step 5
Once the cookies are completely cooled, use a piping bag fitted with a small round tip to decorate your gingerbread. Feel free to get creative with your designs! Allow the icing to set completely before serving or storing.
Step 6
Your delicious homemade gingerbread is ready to be shared! Gather your family and friends, and make this a joyful holiday tradition. Don't forget to savor the festive flavors and the comforting aromas that fill your home. Happy baking!
Servings
Equipment
A good mixing bowl is key for combining your ingredients thoroughly. Opt for a glass or stainless steel bowl for easy clean-up.



Ditch the ordinary and use non-stick baking sheets for a better cookie release! It saves time and effort when cleaning up.



A sturdy rolling pin will help you achieve an even thickness in your cookie dough, ensuring perfectly shaped cookies every time!



Using fun cookie cutters lets you get creative! Choose festive shapes to make your cookies more exciting and playful.
Keeping track of oven temperature is crucial. An oven thermometer will help you bake your cookies to perfection without any guesswork!



Variations
Vegan Gingerbread Cookies: Swap the eggs for a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) and use maple syrup instead of honey. These small changes make for a delicious vegan treat! Get ready to enjoy hearty gingerbread cookies without compromising on taste! ✨🍪
Faq
- What if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, simply add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches the right consistency. It should be firm enough to roll out easily.
- How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Your gingerbread cookies are done when they are firm to the touch but still slightly soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Can I decorate the cookies with royal icing?
Absolutely! Royal icing is perfect for decorating gingerbread cookies. Just make sure to let the cookies cool completely before decorating.
- How long will the cookies last?
If stored in an airtight container, these cookies will stay fresh for about 1-2 weeks. That is if they don’t get eaten before then!
- What spices can I substitute in the recipe?
You can experiment with different spices! Consider using allspice or nutmeg for a unique flavor twist in addition to the classic ginger and cinnamon.
- Can I freeze the dough for later use?
Yes! You can freeze the dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge before rolling it out.