These Big Soft Ginger Cookies are a must-try! Made with simple ingredients like molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, these chewy cookies are packed with warm, comforting flavors. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this ginger cookie recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. Whether you’re looking for a holiday treat, a cozy snack, or a classic dessert, these soft ginger cookies are sure to be a hit. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or milk for the ultimate indulgence!

Table of Contents

Ingredients

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon baking soda
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup softened margarine
1 cup + 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 egg
1 tablespoon water
¼ cup molasses

Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Set aside.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, using a handheld mixer with a paddle attachment, beat together the softened margarine and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
Add wet ingredients: Add the egg and beat until fully incorporated. Then, stir in the water and molasses using a spatula until the mixture is smooth.
Combine with dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until there are no visible traces of flour.
Shape the dough: Roll the dough into 2-tablespoon-sized balls and roll each ball in the remaining 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
Place on baking sheet: Arrange the dough balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet, about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly with your fingers or the back of a spoon.
Bake: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set, but the center is still soft.
Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips

Perfect softness: For soft and chewy cookies, avoid overbaking. The cookies should still be slightly soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
Chill the dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
Even shaping: Use a cookie scoop or spoon to ensure the dough balls are uniform in size for even baking.

Variations and Substitutions

Butter instead of margarine: For a richer flavor, you can substitute butter for margarine.
Molasses alternatives: If you don’t have molasses, you can substitute with dark brown sugar, but the flavor won’t be as deep.
Add-ins: Try adding chocolate chips, chopped crystallized ginger, or chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the dough for extra texture.
Spice adjustments: Feel free to adjust the amount of ginger or cinnamon according to your personal taste preference.

FAQs

Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar for a slightly more molasses-like flavor.

How can I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, simply scoop and bake as directed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these ginger cookies alongside a cup of hot tea, coffee, or milk for a cozy snack.
For a festive touch, serve them at holiday gatherings or as a sweet addition to a dessert table.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Big Soft Ginger Cookies are the perfect combination of warmth and spice, offering the ideal chewy texture with a sweet, slightly crisp exterior. With easy-to-find ingredients and simple steps, they’re a great treat for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to an everyday indulgence. Whether you’re a ginger cookie fan or looking to try something new, this recipe delivers delicious results every time!