Amazing Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Recipe!

Alright, flavor adventurers! Get ready to meet my latest obsession: Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies. These aren’t your grandma’s gingerbread men, though. I’m talking about intensely spiced, perfectly cracked cookies that are as fun to look at as they are to devour.

These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies hit that sweet spot between classic comfort and Cuba Queen-level boldness. Every bite is an explosion of warm spices, a hint of molasses, and that signature crinkle that screams, “EAT ME!” I had to perfect this recipe, and let me tell you, the journey was DELICIOUS.

I knew I had nailed these Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies when my neighbor, Mr. Henderson, who normally sticks to plain vanilla ice cream, devoured three in a row and declared them “surprisingly delightful!” If they can win over Mr. Vanilla himself, you KNOW they’re something special. This Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies is an adventure in every bite. It represents Cuba Queen’s philosophy perfectly: take familiar flavors and crank them up to eleven.

I’m so excited to share this recipe with you. Get ready to transform your kitchen into a Gingerbread Crinkle Cookie wonderland!

INGREDIENTS You Need for This:

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for our Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies.
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda: For that perfect lift and crinkle.
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Adds that classic gingerbread warmth.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Because everything’s better with cinnamon!
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves: A little goes a long way – adds a spicy depth.
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A hint of cozy nuttiness.
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
  • 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: The secret to tender Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies.
  • 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and those beautiful cracks.
  • 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deep molasses flavor.
  • 1/2 cup molasses: The soul of Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies.
  • 1 large egg: Binds everything together.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances all the other flavors.
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar, for rolling: Creates that irresistible sugary coating.
Ingredients for Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies including flour, spices, butter, sugar, molasses, and egg

The secret to EPIC Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies is using DARK molasses. It adds so much more depth and richness. You can find the best molasses for this Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies at most well-stocked grocery stores.

Splurge on good quality spices. Trust me, it makes a world of difference. I like to buy mine whole and grind them myself for maximum flavor impact in these spiced cookies!

Flavor-boosting modification? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little kick! It’s unexpected but seriously delicious in this Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies recipe.

You can usually store the dry ingredients in an airtight container for about a month. No need to worry about them going bad.

This Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies ingredient list is short, but mighty!

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. This ensures that all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the spiced cookies.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This is where your Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies starts to take shape! Don’t skimp on the creaming – it’s important for texture.
  3. Beat in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. The molasses gives these molasses cookies their signature flavor.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix – overmixing can lead to tough cookies. Your Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
  5. Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This is CRUCIAL! Chilling the dough prevents the cookies from spreading too much and helps develop those beautiful cracks. In my kitchen, this Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies chilling process takes at least 2 hours for optimal results.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This makes for easy cleanup and prevents the cookies from sticking.
  7. Roll the chilled dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar, coating generously. This is what gives the cracked cookies their signature look.
  8. Place the sugar-coated balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. They will spread a bit as they bake. Here’s where most people mess up their Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies – but not you! Make sure they are spaced well so they don’t meld.
  9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are cracked. Don’t overbake! Your Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies should look golden brown around the edges with pronounced cracks on top.
  10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. While your Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are working their magic, grab your camera – this is Instagram gold! Your Christmas cookies are here!

Here’s a power tip for Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies perfection: use an ice cream scoop to portion out the dough for uniform cookies.

The dough will be sticky, so don’t stress – your Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are going to be incredible! Pro tip for Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies perfection: if the dough is too sticky to roll, dust your hands with a little flour or powdered sugar.

Your Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies should smell like warm spices and sweet molasses, and they should feel slightly firm around the edges. This is where your Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies transforms into pure magic.

PRESENTATION:

These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are begging to be displayed! Pile them high on a festive platter for a holiday gathering. The contrast of the dark cookies with the snowy white sugar is stunning.

They absolutely slay at holiday cookie exchanges! Package them in cellophane bags tied with ribbon for a beautiful and delicious gift.

Bold pairing suggestions? Serve these Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a mug of hot chocolate. People absolutely lose their minds when I serve this Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies at my annual holiday party.

Perfect occasions for this Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies? Christmas, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, or any time you need a dose of cozy comfort!

Want to make them even more Instagram-worthy? Drizzle them with a simple powdered sugar glaze or sprinkle them with edible glitter. These are perfect Christmas cookies

Creative leftover transformations? Crumble them over yogurt or ice cream, or use them as a base for a Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies pie crust!

Seasonal variations? Add a touch of orange zest or cardamom for a unique twist on this holiday baking favorite.

FAQs:

Can I make this Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies spicier?

Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or increase the amount of ginger, cloves, or cinnamon to your liking. I’ve tested it with double the ginger, and it’s FIRE!

What if I don’t have molasses?

While molasses is key to the flavor, you can substitute with dark corn syrup or maple syrup in a pinch. However, the flavor will be slightly different. The community feedback has been really great for using molasses!

How do I know when my Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies is perfectly done?

The edges should be set, and the tops should be cracked. They will still be slightly soft in the center, but they will firm up as they cool. Don’t overbake them, or they will be dry. Remember my testing experiences – slightly soft is the way to go!

Can I freeze the Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies dough?

Yes! Roll the dough into balls, coat with sugar, and freeze on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

What if my Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies dough is too sticky?

Add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough is easier to handle. Also, make sure you’ve chilled it long enough!

Can I use different types of sugar for rolling?

Yes! Try using turbinado sugar for a coarser texture or powdered sugar for an even softer coating.

How can I prevent my Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies from spreading too much?

Make sure your butter is not too soft and that you chill the dough for at least 2 hours. You can also try adding a tablespoon or two of flour to the dough. Bold reassurance: You got this!

Can I add chocolate chips to my Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies?

Go for it! Dark chocolate chips would be especially delicious. A little customization is always a good thing!

CONCLUSION:

These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies represent everything Cuba Queen stands for: bold flavors, unforgettable experiences, and a touch of unexpected magic. These spiced cookies truly are special.

My Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies Power Tips:

  • Chill the dough: Don’t skip this step! It’s essential for preventing spreading and creating those beautiful cracks.
  • Don’t overbake: Slightly soft centers are key to chewy cookies.
  • Generously coat with sugar: This is what gives the cookies their signature look and added sweetness.

Some Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies variations I’ve created and loved:

  • Orange zest: Adds a bright, citrusy note.
  • Cardamom: A warm, aromatic spice that complements the gingerbread flavors.
  • Chocolate chips: For the chocolate lovers!

The orange zest version always gets the biggest reactions at my cookie swaps.

I have so much confidence in your cooking success with this Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies recipe! Make these Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies your signature dish, and get ready to create some unforgettable memories!

Finished Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies piled on a plate

Now go forth and bake some Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies memories. Don’t forget to share your results on social media and tag me – I can’t wait to see your creations! Also, if you are looking for a good molasses cookies recipe check out Looking for a good molasses cookies recipe.

If you like these flavors, you should try Halloween Crinkle Cookies! For a more plain flavor explosion try Oatmeal Raisin Cookies or a more traditional Gingerbread Cookies! Check out this great recipe by Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies – If You Give a Blonde a Kitchen. Another fabulous one can be found at My recipe for Ginger Crinkle Cookies takes my two favorite holiday ….

 
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Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies

These Gingerbread Crinkle Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with warm spices. Coated in powdered sugar, they create a beautiful cracked appearance as they bake, making them perfect for the holidays.

  • Author: Quinn
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: About 36 cookies
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1 cup powdered sugar, for rolling

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the molasses and egg, then stir in the milk.
  3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  4. Cover the dough and chill for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  6. Place the powdered sugar in a shallow bowl.
  7. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and roll each ball in the powdered sugar, coating completely.
  8. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart.
  9. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are cracked.
  10. Let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For extra chewy cookies, don’t overbake them. They should still be slightly soft in the center when you remove them from the oven. Serve warm with a glass of milk or hot cocoa.

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