Spiced Gingerbread Heart Cookies

Name: Spiced Gingerbread Heart Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup molasses; 1 large egg; Royal icing; Sprinkles; Edible glitter

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the warm and spicy flavors of these beautifully decorated heart-shaped cookies, perfect for any festive occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-03T17:23:27.367Z

These Spiced Gingerbread Heart Cookies are a holiday tradition in many homes. The rich aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves fills the air as they bake, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for gatherings. Whether you decorate them with icing or enjoy them plain, these cookies are sure to bring joy and warmth to your celebrations!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warmly spiced with ginger and cinnamon for a comforting flavor
Perfectly shaped hearts for a delightful presentation
Great for gifting or sharing with loved ones

      

A Festive Treat for Every Occasion

Spiced Gingerbread Heart Cookies are not just a delightful dessert; they're a perfect addition to any festive celebration. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering, a cozy winter party, or simply looking to indulge in the comforting flavors of the season, these cookies will surely impress. Their heart-shaped design adds a personal touch, making them an ideal choice for sharing with loved ones.

The warm spices of ginger and cinnamon fill your kitchen with a comforting aroma that evokes memories of family traditions. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making these cookies a beloved favorite among both children and adults. As you prepare to bake, you can already envision the smiles on the faces of those who will enjoy them.

Perfect for Gifting and Sharing

One of the wonderful aspects of Spiced Gingerbread Heart Cookies is their versatility when it comes to gifting. These cookies can be beautifully packaged in decorative boxes or bags, making them thoughtful homemade gifts for friends, family, or colleagues. The effort you put into baking and decorating them will surely be appreciated, showcasing your culinary skills and personal touch.

Additionally, these cookies are an excellent activity for families or friends. Gather your loved ones to bake and decorate the cookies together, creating cherished memories while enjoying the festive spirit. With endless decorating possibilities, everyone can unleash their creativity, making each cookie unique and special.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Spiced Gingerbread Heart Cookies turn out perfectly, remember to measure your ingredients accurately. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve the right proportions, especially when it comes to flour. Additionally, chilling the dough is a crucial step that helps maintain the cookie shape during baking, preventing them from spreading too much.

When rolling out the dough, flour your surface lightly to avoid sticking. If the dough becomes too soft while working, return it to the refrigerator for a few minutes. Lastly, monitor the baking time closely; overbaking can lead to dry cookies. Aim for a slight firmness around the edges while keeping the centers soft for that perfect bite.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 tablespoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup molasses
1 large egg

For Decoration (optional)

Royal icing
Sprinkles
Edible glitter

Gather all your ingredients before starting to make the process easier!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. In another bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the molasses and egg, mixing until combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a dough forms.

Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until firm.

Roll and Cut Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut out cookies and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are firm. Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Decorate (Optional)

If desired, decorate the cooled cookies with royal icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter.

Enjoy your freshly baked Spiced Gingerbread Heart Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!

Storing Your Cookies

Once your Spiced Gingerbread Heart Cookies are baked and cooled, storing them properly will keep them fresh for days. Place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, where they can last for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw them at room temperature. You can even warm them slightly in the oven for a few minutes for that fresh-baked taste. Just be sure to let them cool before decorating, if applicable.

Unique Decorating Ideas

The decoration of your Spiced Gingerbread Heart Cookies can be as simple or elaborate as you desire. For a classic look, use royal icing to create intricate designs or simple outlines. Add colorful sprinkles or edible glitter for a festive touch that appeals to both kids and adults alike.

If you're feeling adventurous, try using different types of icing, such as fondant or chocolate ganache, to create unique textures and flavors. You can also incorporate seasonal themes by using cookie cutters in various shapes or adding themed decorations that align with holidays or special occasions.

Pairing Suggestions

These Spiced Gingerbread Heart Cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Consider serving them alongside a warm cup of spiced chai, hot cocoa, or even a rich coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. The spices in the cookies will complement the flavors of your drink, creating a harmonious tasting experience.

For a festive touch, you might also try pairing these cookies with a sweet dessert wine or a spiced apple cider. The contrast of flavors enhances the enjoyment of both the cookies and the beverages, making for a memorable treat during any holiday gathering.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the dough or the baked cookies. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.

→ What can I use instead of molasses?

You can substitute molasses with honey or maple syrup, but the flavor will be slightly different.

→ How long do these cookies stay fresh?

They can last up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature.

→ Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.