Christmas is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with a batch of warm, delicious gingerbread cookies? These aren't your average gingerbread cookies; these are Paula Deen's Christmas magic, bringing the taste of Southern charm and holiday cheer to your kitchen. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, and even beginner bakers will find it a breeze to make these delightful treats. Get ready for a quick dinner idea that's also a delicious dessert!
Ingredients: A Southern Christmas Blend
This recipe makes approximately 3 dozen cookies.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup molasses
- Optional: ½ cup chopped candied ginger or crystallized ginger for extra zing!
Instructions: Baking Up Holiday Cheer
Step 1: Creaming the Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This is key for getting those perfectly chewy cookies! Use an electric mixer for best results.
Step 2: Adding the Wet Ingredients: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the molasses.
Step 3: Combining Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
Step 4: Gently Combining Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. If using candied ginger, fold it in now.
Step 5: Chilling the Dough: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes. This step allows the flavors to meld and makes the dough easier to handle.
Step 6: Shaping and Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to shape your cookies – stars, Christmas trees, or even simple circles are all perfect!
Step 7: Baking to Perfection: Place the cookies on ungreased baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
Step 8: Cooling and Enjoying: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Cookie Perfection:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is truly softened – not melted, but pliable. This ensures even mixing and a smooth dough.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Chill Time is Crucial: Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Baking Time Varies: Oven temperatures can differ, so keep a close eye on your cookies and adjust baking time as needed.
Variations: A Sprinkle of Your Own Christmas Spirit
- Chocolate Gingerbread: Add ½ cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a decadent twist.
- Spiced Gingerbread: Increase the ginger to 3 teaspoons for an extra kick of spice.
- Glaze it Up: Once cooled, drizzle your cookies with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-180 Fat: Approximately 8-10g Sugar: Approximately 15-20g
These Paula Deen-inspired Christmas cookies are a guaranteed hit. They're a perfect addition to your holiday baking, creating delicious memories with family and friends. Enjoy the process, enjoy the taste, and enjoy the Christmas spirit!