It’s that time of the year again – holiday season is upon us! And what better way to get into the festive spirit than baking some scrumptious treats for your loved ones? Gingerbread men are a classic favorite, and with the right recipe, you can create a variety of delicious flavors to suit every taste. From traditional gingerbread men with royal icing to more unique flavor combinations like spiced molasses or vegan maple glaze, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 18 mouth-watering gingerbread men recipes that will make your holiday baking a success. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative and try something new. So grab your mixing bowl, preheat your oven, and let’s get started!
Classic Gingerbread Men with Royal Icing
A holiday tradition, these classic gingerbread men are a staple of Christmas cookie exchanges and festive gatherings. With their warm spices and sweet icing, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Royal Icing (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter or knife.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Royal Icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons meringue powder
– 2 tablespoons water
Whisk together ingredients until smooth and thin. Use to decorate cooled gingerbread men.
Spiced Molasses Gingerbread Men
Create a festive holiday treat by baking these aromatic gingerbread men infused with the warmth of molasses and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1 cup molasses
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 1 large egg
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and molasses until smooth. Beat in egg and chopped ginger.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms. If needed, add water to achieve a workable consistency.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or knife.
6. Place gingerbread men on prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Vegan Gingerbread Men with Maple Glaze
These soft and spicy gingerbread men are made with wholesome ingredients and topped with a rich maple glaze, perfect for a vegan holiday celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon maple syrup
– 1/4 cup non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– Maple glaze: 1/4 cup pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, oats, sugar, molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and baking soda.
3. Add non-dairy milk and stir until a dough forms. Divide into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size for gingerbread men.
4. Roll out each portion to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter or knife.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until firm to the touch.
6. Allow to cool before glazing with maple syrup mixture.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men Cookies
These soft-baked gingerbread men cookies are a holiday tradition, now made easy and accessible to those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity. With the warmth of spices and sweetness of molasses, these treats will be a hit at any festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup coconut sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almond flour, coconut sugar, brown sugar, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together molasses, melted butter, eggs, and water as needed to form a dough.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a ball forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set. Allow to cool before decorating.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chocolate-Dipped Gingerbread Men
Elevate your holiday baking with these sweet and spicy treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– White chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm to the touch. Let cool completely.
7. Melt white chocolate chips in a double boiler or in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
8. Dip cooled gingerbread men into melted white chocolate. Place on parchment-lined baking sheet to set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cinnamon Sugar Gingerbread Men
These soft and chewy gingerbread men are infused with the warmth of cinnamon and a hint of spice, perfect for snacking or gifting to friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
– Cinnamon sugar mixture (see below) for coating
Cinnamon Sugar Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together brown sugar, crystallized ginger, and butter until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm to the touch.
10. Allow to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (optional) and coating in cinnamon sugar mixture.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Orange Zest Gingerbread Men
These vibrant gingerbread men are infused with the warmth of ginger and the brightness of orange zest, perfect for a festive holiday treat. The combination of sweet and spicy flavors will make your Christmas party or gift exchange a hit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange zest (from about 2 oranges)
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add orange zest and eggs; mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Chewy Gingerbread Men with Honey Drizzle
These soft-baked gingerbread men are infused with the warmth of crystallized ginger and topped with a sweet honey drizzle.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 2 large eggs
– Honey, for drizzling
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and crystallized ginger.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each gingerbread man.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
8. Allow to cool completely before drizzling with honey.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Eggnog-Flavored Gingerbread Men
These festive treats combine the warmth of gingerbread with the creamy richness of eggnog, perfect for holiday gatherings or a sweet treat any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup eggnog-flavored extract (or 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract and 1 tablespoon heavy cream)
– 2 large eggs
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and eggnog-flavored extract until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time.
5. Gradually mix in dry ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters or a knife.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each gingerbread man.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm to the touch.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Peppermint Frosted Gingerbread Men
Add a refreshing twist to traditional gingerbread men with these Peppermint Frosted Gingerbread Men. Perfect for holiday parties or as a sweet treat for your loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and peppermint extract.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes with a cookie cutter or knife.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until firm to the touch.
7. Allow to cool completely before frosting with your favorite royal icing and dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
Gingerbread Men with Lemon Glaze
Add a burst of citrusy fun to your traditional gingerbread men with this simple recipe featuring a tangy lemon glaze. Perfect for holiday parties or special treats.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Lemon glaze (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until firm to the touch. Let cool completely.
Lemon Glaze:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Whisk together until smooth. Drizzle over cooled gingerbread men before serving.
Almond Flour Gingerbread Men
Sweet and Spicy Almond Flour Gingerbread Men Recipe
These soft and chewy gingerbread men are made with almond flour, crystallized ginger, and a hint of spice, perfect for the holiday season. With only 10 ingredients and minimal prep time, you can easily whip up a batch to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups almond flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, sugar, and spices.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms. If too dry, add a little water.
4. Roll out dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Gingerbread Men Stuffed with Caramel
Sweet Surprise Gingerbread Men Stuffed with Caramel
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these soft and chewy gingerbread men stuffed with a gooey caramel center. Perfect for the holiday season or any special occasion, these treats are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• Caramel filling (store-bought or homemade)
• Royal icing and decorations for the gingerbread men
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are set.
7. Allow to cool completely before filling with caramel.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Brown Butter Gingerbread Men
Bring the joy of the holiday season to your home with these soft and chewy brown butter gingerbread men, infused with the warmth of ginger and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Gingerbread Men with Cream Cheese Frosting
Brighten up your holiday season with these classic gingerbread men, perfectly paired with a tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for snacking or gift-giving!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (gingerbread men).
6. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until firm to the touch. Let cool completely.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
Mix all ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Spread or pipe onto cooled gingerbread men.
Gingerbread Men with Candied Ginger Bits
Add an extra layer of spice and sweetness to your classic gingerbread men by incorporating candied ginger bits. These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday parties or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Candied ginger bits (store-bought or homemade)
– Royal icing and decorations of your choice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Divide dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten slightly into a man shape.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm to the touch.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Gingerbread Men
These soft and chewy gingerbread men are infused with the warm spices of pumpkin pie, making them a perfect treat for fall gatherings. With just the right amount of sweetness and a hint of spice, they’re sure to become a new holiday tradition.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
– Decorations of your choice (eggs, icing, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add pumpkin puree and mix until combined.
4. Beat in eggs, then gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or knife.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until firm to the touch.
Yield: About 20-25 cookies
Gingerbread Men with Dark Chocolate Drizzle
These soft-baked gingerbread men are the perfect holiday treat, elevated by a decadent dark chocolate drizzle. Make them for your loved ones or enjoy them all to yourself!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– Dark chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (at least 60% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream together butter, sugar, and molasses until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into shapes or use a cookie cutter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until firm to the touch.
7. Allow to cool before drizzling with dark chocolate. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spread some holiday cheer with these 18 delicious gingerbread men recipes! From classic treats topped with royal icing, to spiced molasses and chocolate-dipped delights, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at vegan or gluten-free options, like maple glaze or almond flour cookies. Or go all out with caramel-stuffed or brown butter goodies. Whatever your taste, these gingerbread men are sure to bring joy to your holiday gathering. With a range of flavors and toppings, you’ll find the perfect recipe to make your festive baking shine!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
