Big Soft Ginger Cookies
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup butter
softened
- 1 cup sugar
plus additional for rolling
- 1 large egg
room temperature
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 2-1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, five to seven minutes. Beat in the room-temperature egg and the molasses. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture and beat well.
- 2
Roll the dough into 1-1/2-inch balls, then roll each ball in a small bowl that’s filled with sugar. Place the balls 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets. Editor’s Tip: Portion out the dough with a cookie scoop for consistency and ease.
- 3
Bake the cookies until they’re puffy and lightly browned, 10 to 12 minutes. Remove the cookies onto wire racks to cool to room temperature.
Big Soft Ginger Cookies
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Ratings & Reviews
Based on 178 ratings
Rating Breakdown
About this Recipe
Craving that comforting warmth of a classic ginger cookie, but with a wonderfully soft and chewy bite? These Big Soft Ginger Cookies deliver just that, bringing together a symphony of spices and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that will quickly become your new favorite.
Why This Recipe Works
The secret to their irresistible tenderness lies in the generous use of softened butter and the rich depth of molasses, which also contributes to their signature dark hue and complex sweetness. A balanced blend of ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves creates that quintessential spicy warmth, perfectly complemented by a touch of baking soda for a delightful puffiness.
What to Expect
Prepare for your kitchen to be filled with the most inviting aroma of holiday spices, even if you're baking them on a Tuesday afternoon. Each bite offers a harmonious balance of sweet and spicy, with the ginger providing a pleasant warmth that lingers. The texture is truly remarkable—crisp at the edges, yet wonderfully soft and chewy in the center, a delightful contrast that keeps you reaching for another. You'll love how these big, tender cookies feel substantial and satisfying, making them perfect for cozy moments.
Customization & Variations
While delicious as is, you can subtly tweak the spice profile by increasing the ground ginger for a bolder kick, or adding a pinch of nutmeg for extra aromatic depth. Instead of just plain sugar for rolling, try a mix of granulated sugar and a touch of turbinado sugar for an extra textural sparkle and subtle caramel note on the exterior.
Serving & Context
These Big Soft Ginger Cookies are perfect for any occasion, from a festive holiday cookie platter to a simple afternoon treat with a glass of milk. They also pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, making them a comforting companion on a chilly evening.