Get ready to transform your kitchen into a festive wonderland with these irresistible Graham Cracker Gingerbread Men! Imagine biting into a perfectly spiced cookie that combines the classic charm of traditional gingerbread with the delightful crunch of graham crackers. These adorable little cookie characters aren't just treats; they're edible memories waiting to be created, guaranteed to bring smiles to both kids and adults alike. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises a delicious adventure that will fill your home with warmth and the most incredible holiday aromas.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together graham cracker crumbs, all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, and ground cloves until well combined and no lumps remain.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and brown sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add molasses and egg to the butter mixture, beating until fully incorporated and smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. The dough should be cohesive but not sticky.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to allow it to firm up and make rolling easier.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is chilling.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to approximately 1/4 inch thickness. Use gingerbread man cookie cutters to cut out shapes.
- Carefully transfer the cut-out gingerbread men to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set.
- Remove from the oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Decorate with royal icing, candy buttons, or melted chocolate to create faces and details on your gingerbread men.
- Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Tips
- • Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture. • Chill the dough for the recommended 15-20 minutes - this prevents spreading and helps maintain cookie shape. • Use a light hand when rolling out the dough to keep cookies tender. • For crisp edges, rotate your baking sheet halfway through cooking. • Let cookies cool completely before decorating to prevent icing from melting. • Get creative with decorations - use royal icing, chocolate, or candies to bring your gingerbread men to life. • Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness and soft texture. • For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of vanilla extract to the dough.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
