Gingerbread cookies: from royal tradition to your own recipe

The aroma of ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg wafting from the oven—for many, it's the ultimate sign that the holidays have begun. Gingerbread cookies, or "gemberkoekjes" in Dutch, have been a beloved treat for centuries. Understandably so; the soft, spicy flavor and crunch are irresistible. But did you know that these cookies actually have a rich history dating all the way back to the Middle Ages, and that Queen Elizabeth I actually invented them?! Read all about it... and the recipe, of course!

When did gingerbread cookies originate?

The first forms of gingerbread were made as early as the 10th century in the Middle East. Around that time, European crusaders brought spices like ginger and cinnamon home, and soon people in Europe began experimenting with these exotic flavors. By the 13th century, gingerbread-like cookies were already popular in countries like Germany and England.

Yet, it wasn't immediately the type of cookie we know today. Instead of crispy cookies, gingerbread was originally a kind of cake, sometimes even with a honey coating. This variety was especially popular at medieval fairs and festivals, where it was sold as a treat. Only later did gingerbread acquire the firm, crunchy texture we now associate with these cookies.

The birth of the gingerbread man

The famous gingerbread man "No, not my buttons..." , the cookie shaped like a human figure, was, according to history, first created at the court of Queen Elizabeth I of England. In the 16th century, she had these cookies specially baked and decorated for important guests, making them resemble the visitors as closely as possible. Others soon began to copy this, and the gingerbread man became an indispensable figure during the holidays.

Since then, baking and decorating gingerbread cookies of all shapes and sizes has become an annual tradition, especially around Christmas. These days, gingerbread cookies come in all sorts of shapes, from stars and Christmas trees to entire houses, with icing, candy, and even lights. But the gingerbread man remains a true favorite!

Why do we bake gingerbread during the holidays?

Gingerbread cookies have a wintery, warm flavor thanks to the spice blend, making them ideal for colder months. Moreover, the use of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves was once associated with wealth and festivities, as these ingredients were once very expensive. Baking gingerbread became a luxurious treat reserved for special occasions like Christmas.

The recipe for your own delicious gingerbread cookies

Want to try making gingerbread cookies yourself? This recipe is simple and perfect to share with friends or family. The best part, besides eating the dough (be careful with the raw ingredients)? Decorating! Decorate the cookies with icing and candy to truly create a work of art.

Ingredients

For about 20 gingerbread cookies, but of course this depends on the size of your molds.

• 300 g flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tsp ginger powder
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 100 g butter, at room temperature
• 100 g dark caster sugar
• 1 egg
• 150 ml molasses (or syrup as a substitute)
• Powdered sugar and water for the icing (possibly with food coloring)
• Tumtums, sprinkles and other decorations (optional)

Also make sure you have a large mixing bowl, baking tray and extra flour and baking paper.

Preparation method

Preparation : Preheat the oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Mix dry ingredients : Sift the flour, baking soda, salt and all the spices into a large bowl and set aside.
Make the wet mixture : Beat the butter and sugar in a separate bowl until fluffy. Add the egg and molasses and mix well.
Making the dough : Add the flour mixture to the wet mixture and mix until a firm dough forms. Knead briefly with your hands, wrap the dough in cling film, and let it rest in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Shaping and baking : Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 0.5 cm thick. Cut out shapes with cookie cutters and place them on the baking sheet. Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, until the edges are lightly browned.

Decorating : Let the cookies cool completely before decorating. For the icing, mix powdered sugar with a few drops of water until it forms a thick, smooth paste. Add some food coloring if desired. Decorate the cookies with icing and let your creativity run wild!

Tips for perfectly decorated gingerbread cookies

• Let the dough rest : Chill the dough for at least half an hour, so that the cookies keep their shape better during baking.
• Use a piping bag : For precise lines, you can use a piping bag or plastic bag to apply the icing.
• Experiment with flavors : Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist, or dip the cookies in melted chocolate for a luxurious twist.

Enjoy your homemade gingerbread cookies

Whether you're planning a cozy baking afternoon with the family or just feel like making something delicious, gingerbread cookies bring ambiance and warmth to your home. The great thing about these cookies is that you can endlessly vary the shapes, flavors, and decorations. So put on your Christmas apron, preheat the oven, and get baking!

💛 Try this recipe, don't eat too much dough, and let us know how your gingerbread cookies turned out!