Gingerbread men cookies decorated with white icing, surrounded by holiday decorations like pine sprigs, cinnamon sticks, and powdered sugar.

The Gingerbread Men with Icing are a classic holiday treat that brings warmth and cheer to any festive gathering. These spiced cookies, decorated with intricate icing designs, are fun to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones.


Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Gingerbread Men with Icing:

For the Gingerbread Cookies:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp ground ginger
  • 2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp ground cloves
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ½ cup molasses
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Royal Icing:

  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tbsp meringue powder
  • 3–4 tbsp water (adjust for consistency)


Step 1: Make the Gingerbread Dough

A flavorful dough is the foundation for these festive cookies.

  • Method: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the molasses, egg, and vanilla. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  • Tip: Chilled dough is easier to roll out and holds its shape during baking.


Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies

The iconic gingerbread man shape is what makes these cookies special.

  • Method: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to ¼-inch thickness. Use a gingerbread man cookie cutter to cut out shapes and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until edges are firm. Cool completely on a wire rack.
  • Tip: Roll the dough evenly to ensure consistent baking.


Step 3: Prepare the Royal Icing

Royal icing is the perfect decoration for these festive cookies.

  • Method: In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar and meringue powder. Add water gradually until the icing reaches a pipeable consistency. Transfer to a piping bag with a fine tip.
  • Tip: Cover the icing with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying out.


Step 4: Decorate with Holiday Flair

Decorating is where the fun begins!

  • Method: Use the royal icing to draw faces, buttons, and outlines on the gingerbread men. Add creative designs like bows or holiday sweaters for a playful touch. Let the icing set completely before serving.

Why You’ll Love These Gingerbread Cookies

These cookies are a holiday staple for a reason:

  • Festive Flavor: The warm spices and rich molasses flavor embody the holiday spirit.
  • Fun for All Ages: Decorating gingerbread men is a delightful activity for families and kids.
  • Perfect for Gifting: These cookies make a thoughtful and delicious holiday gift.

The Gingerbread Men with Icing are a timeless holiday tradition that combines delicious flavor with creative fun. Whether enjoyed with a cup of cocoa or given as a gift, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your holiday celebrations.