White Chocolate Gingerbread Star Cookies

There’s something truly magical about baking during the holiday season, and when it comes to festive treats, nothing beats White Chocolate Gingerbread Star Cookies. I remember the first time I made these delightful cookies; the aroma of warm spices filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to a cozy winter wonderland. Each bite offers a perfect blend of rich, creamy sweetness from the white chocolate and the warm, spicy notes of ginger and cinnamon. It’s a simple yet rewarding process that brings the entire family together, whether you’re decorating the cookies or simply enjoying them fresh out of the oven. These cookies have become a cherished tradition in my home, evoking memories of laughter, joy, and the spirit of the season.

White Chocolate Gingerbread Star Cookies Ingredients

Crafting the perfect White Chocolate Gingerbread Star Cookies begins with quality ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating the delightful flavors and textures we crave. The balance of spices and the richness of butter and brown sugar come together to form a dough that’s deliciously aromatic. Let’s dive into the key players:

• All-purpose flour – 3 cups (425g): This forms the base of our cookies, providing structure and texture.
• Ground ginger – 1 Tbsp: Offers that signature warm, spicy flavor that defines gingerbread.
• Ground cinnamon – 2 tsp: A classic spice that adds warmth and sweetness.
• Ground nutmeg – 1/4 tsp: Introduces a hint of nutty flavor.
• Ground cloves – 1/4 tsp: A small amount goes a long way in enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Baking powder – 3/4 tsp: Helps the cookies rise and become light and fluffy.
• Baking soda – 1/2 tsp: Works alongside baking powder to leaven the dough.
• Salt – 1/2 tsp: Enhances flavors and balances sweetness.
• Packed dark brown sugar – 3/4 cup (165g): Adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor.
• Unsalted butter – 10 Tbsp (142g): Creates a rich, tender texture.
• Egg yolk – 1 large: Provides richness and helps bind the ingredients.
• Vanilla extract – 1 1/2 tsp: Infuses a lovely aroma that complements the spices.
• Unsulphured molasses – 1/2 cup (172g): Gives the cookies their distinctive color and flavor.
• Milk – 1 – 2 Tbsp: Helps bring the dough together.
• White chocolate – 4 – 10 oz, chopped: For drizzling or dipping, adding a sweet finish.

Cooking Method for White Chocolate Gingerbread Star Cookies

Making White Chocolate Gingerbread Star Cookies is a fun and rewarding adventure. Start by preheating your oven and gathering your ingredients. You’ll appreciate the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as you create these cookies. Follow along as I guide you through the steps to achieve cookie perfection.

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This is crucial for ensuring your cookies bake evenly. A well-preheated oven helps create that slightly crisp exterior we love.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt for about 20 seconds. This step combines your dry ingredients and ensures the spices are evenly distributed.
3. In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together brown sugar and butter until well combined. Occasionally stop to scrape down the sides of the bowl; this ensures everything mixes evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add in the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Next, pour in the molasses and 1 Tbsp of milk. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
5. With the mixer set on low speed, slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. If the dough seems too dry, add another 1 Tbsp of milk. The goal is a workable dough that holds together well.
6. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion out evenly to just slightly over 1/4-inch thickness between two sheets of parchment paper. This allows for easy transferring to the cookie sheet.
7. Once rolled out, chill the dough on a cookie sheet in the freezer for 20 minutes, or about 1 hour in the fridge. This step is essential for firming up the dough so that your cookies hold their shape when cut.
8. After the chilling period, use a cookie cutter to cut the dough into star shapes. Carefully remove the cookies from the parchment paper using a thin metal spatula or pastry scraper if needed.
9. Transfer the cookies to a cookie sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake in your preheated oven for about 8 minutes, or until they are slightly set. They should leave a slight indentation when touched.
10. Repeat the process with the remaining cookie dough. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once your cookies are completely cool, place white chocolate in a small microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave at 50% power in 20-second increments, stirring well between each interval until melted and smooth.
12. If you plan to drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cookies, transfer it to a resealable bag. Cut a small tip from one corner and drizzle it over the cookies. Alternatively, you can dip or spread the white chocolate over half of each cookie.
13. Finally, sprinkle with white sparkling sugar sprinkles and let the chocolate set at room temperature. Store your delicious cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Expert Tips about White Chocolate Gingerbread Star Cookies

To make your experience baking White Chocolate Gingerbread Star Cookies even more enjoyable, here are some expert tips to keep in mind:

• Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to one week, keeping their deliciousness intact.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Just shape it into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and store in the freezer for up to three months.
• Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea, making them perfect for cozy gatherings.
• Experimenting with flavors: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruit to the dough for an extra twist. Chopped hazelnuts or dried cranberries are excellent choices.
• Decorating: Get creative with decorations! Use icing, edible glitter, or even crushed candy canes to make them festive and fun.

How to Enjoy White Chocolate Gingerbread Star Cookies

• Perfect for holiday gatherings: White Chocolate Gingerbread Star Cookies are a hit at holiday parties. Serve them alongside other festive treats for a beautiful dessert table.
• Gift giving: Package these cookies in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will appreciate.
• Cozy evenings in: Enjoy these cookies with a mug of hot cocoa while snuggling up for a movie night with loved ones.
• Seasonal celebrations: These cookies can brighten any winter celebration, from Christmas to New Year’s Eve.
• Storage tips: Always store your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If they become too soft, a brief stint in the fridge can help regain their structure.

FAQ

Conclusion

White Chocolate Gingerbread Star Cookies are not just cookies; they encapsulate the warmth and magic of the holiday season. Their delightful combination of spices and creamy sweetness makes them a perfect treat for any occasion. I encourage you to try making these cookies; it’s a wonderful way to create memories that last a lifetime. Gather your loved ones, get baking, and enjoy the festive spirit!

White Chocolate Gingerbread Star Cookies

The ultimate holiday treat, White Chocolate Gingerbread Star Cookies offer a delightful blend of spicy ginger, sweet molasses, and creamy white chocolate. Perfect for sharing or enjoying during cozy nights in, these cookies will bring joy to any festive occasion. Make them tonight and indulge in the warmth of the season!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 30 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 130

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 3 cups All-purpose flour
• 1 Tbsp Ground ginger
• 2 tsp Ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp Ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp Ground cloves
• 3/4 tsp Baking powder
• 1/2 tsp Baking soda
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 3/4 cup Packed dark brown sugar
• 10 Tbsp Unsalted butter
• 1 large Egg yolk
• 1 1/2 tsp Vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup Unsulphured molasses
• 1 - 2 Tbsp Milk
• 4 - 10 oz White chocolate

Equipment

• Oven
• Mixing Bowl
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife
• Food Processor
• Wooden Spoon
• Whisk

Method

 

1. 1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. This is crucial for ensuring your cookies bake evenly. A well-preheated oven helps create that slightly crisp exterior we love.
2. 2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt for about 20 seconds. This step combines your dry ingredients and ensures the spices are evenly distributed.
3. 3. In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together brown sugar and butter until well combined. Occasionally stop to scrape down the sides of the bowl; this ensures everything mixes evenly. You'll know it’s ready when the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. 4. Add in the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Next, pour in the molasses and 1 Tbsp of milk. Mix until everything is well incorporated.
5. 5. With the mixer set on low speed, slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. If the dough seems too dry, add another 1 Tbsp of milk. The goal is a workable dough that holds together well.
6. 6. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each portion out evenly to just slightly over 1/4-inch thickness between two sheets of parchment paper. This allows for easy transferring to the cookie sheet.
7. 7. Once rolled out, chill the dough on a cookie sheet in the freezer for 20 minutes, or about 1 hour in the fridge. This step is essential for firming up the dough so that your cookies hold their shape when cut.
8. 8. After the chilling period, use a cookie cutter to cut the dough into star shapes. Carefully remove the cookies from the parchment paper using a thin metal spatula or pastry scraper if needed.
9. 9. Transfer the cookies to a cookie sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Bake in your preheated oven for about 8 minutes, or until they are slightly set. They should leave a slight indentation when touched.
10. 10. Repeat the process with the remaining cookie dough. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. 11. Once your cookies are completely cool, place white chocolate in a small microwave-safe bowl. Heat in the microwave at 50% power in 20-second increments, stirring well between each interval until melted and smooth.
12. 12. If you plan to drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cookies, transfer it to a resealable bag. Cut a small tip from one corner and drizzle it over the cookies. Alternatively, you can dip or spread the white chocolate over half of each cookie.
13. 13. Finally, sprinkle with white sparkling sugar sprinkles and let the chocolate set at room temperature. Store your delicious cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to one week, keeping their deliciousness intact.
• Tip 2: You can freeze the cookie dough before baking. Just shape it into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and store in the freezer for up to three months.
• Tip 3: These cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea, making them perfect for cozy gatherings.
• Tip 4: Feel free to add nuts or dried fruit to the dough for an extra twist. Chopped hazelnuts or dried cranberries are excellent choices.
• Tip 5: Get creative with decorations! Use icing, edible glitter, or even crushed candy canes to make them festive and fun.

Previous PostThanksgiving Leftover Sliders

Next Post MM Blondies

Meet Georgia Clark

I’m the one who obsesses over the details so you don't have to. I love the science of cooking and perfecting comfort classics. I’ve tested this recipe multiple times to guarantee it comes out foolproof and delicious every single time you make it.