Christmas would not be complete without gingerbread men. They are the iconic Christmas cookie.
Making gingerbread is a simple but time consuming process. You must make the dough and let it chill. Bake the cookies and then decorate them.
Gingerbread cookies
5 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup shortening
1 cup sugar
1 egg
1 cup molasses
2 tablespoons vinegar
In a large bowl stir together flour, baking soda, spices and salt.
Using an electric mixer beat shortening for 30 seconds. Add sugar and beat till fluffy. Add egg, molasses and vinegar, beat well. Add flour mixture.
Cover dough and chill for at least 3 hours.
Working with a small amount of dough at a time (and keeping the remaining dough chilled) roll on a floured surface to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes. Place on a greased cookie sheet and make at 375 for about 5 minutes.
For the icing, I use Wilton’s meringue powder.
ROYAL ICING recipe found at wilton.com
3 tablespoons Wilton’s Meringue Powder
4 cups (about 1 lb.) confectioners’ sugar
5 tablespoons warm water
Beat all ingredients until icing forms peaks (7-10 minutes at low speed with a heavy-duty mixer, 10-12 minutes at high speed with a hand-held mixer).
As always you can print the recipe cards Gingerbread Cookies Printable Recipe Card and Royal icing printable recipe card.
