Soft Gingerbread Pryaniki Cookies Recipe

Looking for the perfect gingerbread cookies? Our Soft Gingerbread Pryaniki Cookies recipe is sure to be a holiday favorite. These easy-to-make, soft, and flavorful cookies are infused with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, offering the ideal balance of sweetness and spice. Topped with a glossy vanilla glaze and customizable decorations, these cookies are perfect for Christmas, New Year’s, or any festive occasion.

Made with simple ingredients like brown sugar, sour cream, and all-purpose flour, these cookies are easy to bake and perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers. They are soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that stay fresh for days, making them great for holiday cookie exchanges and Christmas parties.

Whether you prefer them plain or decorated with colorful food coloring and sprinkles, these gingerbread cookies are sure to impress. Make them for your next family gathering or give them as a delightful homemade gift. Don’t miss out on this timeless and easy gingerbread cookie recipe that will fill your home with festive cheer!

Ingredients

For the Gingerbread Cookies:

• 1 large egg yolk
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp white vinegar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour**

For the Vanilla Glaze:

• 2 large egg whites
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional Decorations:

• Food coloring gels (as desired)
• Crystal sprinkles or other decorative toppings

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Instructions

How to Make Gingerbread Cookies:

1. Prepare the Batter:
   In a stand mixer, whisk together the egg yolk and brown sugar until well blended. Add the sour cream and mix until smooth.
2. Activate the Baking Soda:
   Combine baking soda and vinegar in a small dish (it will foam) and stir it into the batter.
3. Add Spices and Flour:
   Mix in the salt, vanilla extract, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Gradually add the flour, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing until just incorporated. The dough will be sticky.
4. Shape the Cookies:
   Scoop rounded teaspoons of dough into well-floured hands and roll into 1-inch balls. Arrange evenly on a parchment or silicone-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for 20–25 minutes or until cookies are just turning golden. Remove from the oven and set aside to cool slightly.

How to Make Vanilla Glaze:

1. Beat the Egg Whites:
   In a stand mixer, whisk egg whites on high speed until they triple in volume (2–3 minutes).
2. Add Sugar and Vanilla:
   Reduce speed to low and gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla. Mix until smooth, then increase to medium speed and beat for another 2 minutes. Do not overmix.

How to Glaze and Decorate:

1. Glaze the Cookies:
   While cookies are still warm, dip the tops into the vanilla glaze. Set on a wire rack and allow the glaze to dry.
2. Decorate:
   For added color, divide the remaining glaze into separate bowls and tint with food coloring. Transfer the glaze to small piping bags or resealable bags with the tips snipped off. Pipe designs once the initial glaze has set. Add sprinkles or crystal sugar before the glaze hardens.

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Tips

• Use a cookie scoop to portion dough for evenly sized cookies.
• For a deeper ginger flavor, use freshly grated ginger in addition to the ground spice.
• Avoid overbaking for soft, tender cookies.

Variations and Substitutions

• Flavors: Substitute nutmeg with cardamom for a unique twist.
• Glaze Alternative: Use a cream cheese glaze for a tangy topping.
• Add-Ins: Mix in finely chopped nuts or candied ginger for extra texture.

FAQs

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes, the dough can be made a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.

Q: How should I store the cookies?
A: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Q: Can I freeze these cookies?
A: Absolutely! Store baked cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with hot cocoa, tea, or coffee for a cozy treat.
• Include them in a festive cookie box for gifting.
• Serve alongside a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Traditional Flavor: These cookies combine warm spices for an authentic gingerbread experience.
• Soft Texture: Perfectly tender and moist, they melt in your mouth.
• Customizable: Easy to decorate, making them ideal for holidays or special occasions.

Enjoy these Soft Gingerbread Pryaniki Cookies as a delightful addition to your holiday celebrations! 🎄