Easy Gingerbread Cookies Healthy So Good

If there’s one thing that I’ve learned as a parent, it’s that iced cookies go first. And these cookies are an easy option to make with the kids. When thinking about this recipe, I wanted to make it as simple as possible, but also ensure that it has the classic gingerbread flavor. This way, it’s actually feasible to make this with little kids AND the flavor is worth the effort. I know how much a short ingredients list can matter when baking with kids—because they aren’t always the most patient! And you don’t even need a mixer to make these healthy cookies, since you can simply use your hands to combine the dough. These healthy Gingerbread Cookies have mellow, not too spicy flavor, but still taste like classic gingerbread. We love to make these around the holidays as part of our must-make Christmas Cookies for kids. The simple icing on top provides ample opportunities for the kids to get in on the action, and you can make the decorations as simple or elaborate as you (and they) like. (We also love our Gingerbread Muffins, Gingerbread Cake, and Gingerbread Pancakes for similar flavors.)

Ingredients You Need

You don’t need any electric cooking tools to make these Gingerbread Men Cookies—just a bowl and clean hands! Here’s a look at the ingredients you’ll need: Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox.

Whole-wheat flour: Or you can use half all-purpose and half whole wheat flour. The mix keeps the texture light and tender. Baking powder: This helps the cookies rise just enough. Cinnamon, ginger, allspice or cloves: This spice combination provides the classic gingerbread flavor, without being overpowering. Salt: A little salt ensures that the flavors come through and that the cookies aren’t bland. Maple syrup: This adds both moisture and sweetness. Molasses: This is key for classic gingerbread flavor. Milk: I use whole milk, but any type of milk will work here. Butter: I like to use unsalted butter in baking so I can control the salt. You’ll want this to be at room temperature so it’s easy to work with. Sprinkles, raisins, chocolate chips as desired for decorating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use all-purpose flour instead of the whole wheat flour and use a smidge less milk. If you don’t have maple syrup, you can use honey. (Avoid honey for kids under age 1.) Dairy-free: Use nondairy milk and vegan butter or coconut oil. If you don’t have molasses, you can use honey. The cookies won’t have the same gingerbread flavor though.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s a look at the process involved in making this easy Gingerbread Cookie recipe. Scroll down to the bottom of this post for the full information. TIP: You can make these the day before you want to serve them if you prefer and store them in an airtight container in at room temperature.

Best Tips for Baking with Kids

Here are some tips to make baking with kids easier. Breaking the process of making these cookies into a few steps is a great way to get the kids involved and avoid having anyone get too overwhelmed. You can make the dough ahead and have it ready. You can bake the cookies and just let the kids help ice them. Either way, have your ingredients ready, a work space set up where it’s okay to make a mess, and have the kids wash their hands before they get started.

How to Store

Store baked and cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To make ahead, you can make the dough the night before or a few hours in advance and store it in the fridge wrapped in plastic wrap. It will need to sit at room temperature for about an hour to soften up, or you can remove it from the plastic, put it onto a plate, and microwave for 5-10 seconds.

Best Tips for Success

If the dough seems a little too dry once you’ve incorporated the liquid and butter into the flour, you can add another tablespoon of milk but go easy on the liquid as more will make the dough stickier. The dough is ready when it holds together when you try to form it into a ball. Refrigerate the dough briefly to help prevent sticking if desired. Roll out the dough between parchment to prevent sticking. Do this for sure if you skipped chilling the dough. Gluten-free: Use this gluten-free flour from King Arthur and add 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed to the dough. Dairy free: Use melted and slightly cooled coconut oil instead of butter and plain unsweetened nondairy milk.

I’d love to hear your feedback on this recipe if you try it with your kids, so please comment below!