Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites

Name: Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 2 h 37 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ¾ teaspoon baking soda; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground cloves; 4 TBSP shortening; ½ cup unsalted butter; 1 cup dark brown sugar; 1 large egg; ½ cup molasses; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; ¼ cup holiday nonpareils sprinkles

Author: Lora

Published: November 30, 2025

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Introduction to Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites

The holiday season fills the air with magic, and what better way to celebrate than with some delightful Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites? I often find myself looking for quick treats that not only satisfy my sweet tooth but also impress my family and friends. These little gems are perfect for those busy days when time is scarce, yet you still want to spread joy and cheer. With just a handful of ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have a batch of these aromatic cookies ready to share, making your holiday celebrations even sweeter!

Why You’ll Love This Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites

These Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites are the perfect blend of sweet and spicy, making them a holiday favorite. They come together quickly, giving you time to focus on the celebration, not just the baking. Plus, they’re a crowd-pleaser; young and old alike will enjoy these tasty treats! You can whip up a double batch and still have them ready in no time. Talk about a Christmas miracle!

Ingredients for Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites

Gathering your ingredients for these Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: The foundation of your cookies, giving them structure and chew.
Baking powder: This adds a little lift, ensuring your cookie bites aren’t too dense.
Baking soda: Helps spread the cookies, adding a hint of fizziness to the texture.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweet and spicy flavors in the cookies.
Ground ginger: The star of the show! This gives your cookies that warm, spicy kick.
Ground cinnamon: A classic holiday spice that adds sweetness and warmth.
Ground cloves: A little goes a long way, providing a bold and zesty flavor.
Shortening: Keeps the cookies moist and tender with a slight richness.
Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and depth, complementing the spices beautifully.
Dark brown sugar: This not only sweetens but also imparts a slight molasses flavor.
Egg: Helps bind everything together, creating that perfect chewy texture.
Molasses: Essential for that classic gingerbread flavor, giving moisture and a deep color.
Vanilla extract: A touch of sweetness that rounds out the flavors just right.
Holiday nonpareils sprinkles: Optional, but they add a festive touch that makes these treats pop!

If you’re looking to switch things up or have dietary restrictions, consider using whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor or coconut oil instead of butter. The ingredient list with exact quantities is available towards the bottom of this article for easy reference and printing!

How to Make Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, it’s time to dive into the baking process! Don’t worry; making these Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites is as easy as pie, or should I say cookie? Let’s embark on this delicious adventure together!

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves in a small bowl. This step is crucial for even flavor distribution and texture.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, or the bowl of your stand mixer, beat the butter, shortening, brown sugar, and egg on medium speed. Mix until the mixture is smooth and well blended. This is where the magic starts to happen!

Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients

Next, add in the molasses and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until everything is beautifully combined. The scent is already making the kitchen feel like a holiday haven!

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending until smooth. Don’t rush this step; a little patience will ensure your cookie bites are perfectly textured and flavorful.

Step 5: Shape and Chill the Dough

Now, press the dough out into an 8×8 inch pan lined with parchment paper. Make it flat and even, then sprinkle your festive nonpareils on top. Gently press them into the dough. Next, chill it in the fridge for at least two hours, or up to eight if you have the time. Trust me, this enhances the flavor!

Step 6: Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets

When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F. While it’s heating, line your baking sheets with parchment paper. This helps prevent sticking and keeps cleanup easy.

Step 7: Cut the Dough Into Cubes

Once your dough is chilled, remove it from the fridge. Place it on a cutting board and use a ruler as a guide to cut the dough into 1/2 inch cubes. You’ll end up with about 100 small cookie bites—perfect for sharing!

Step 8: Bake the Cookie Bites

Transfer the dough cubes to the prepared baking sheet, leaving approximately one inch between each. Bake them one tray at a time for just seven minutes. Let them rest on the hot pan for another two minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely. And voilà! You’ve made Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites!

Tips for Success

Chill the dough for at least two hours to enhance flavor and make it easier to handle.
Keep your baking sheets lined with parchment paper for a non-stick surface and easy cleanup.
Adjust baking times based on your oven, as different models can vary in temperature accuracy.
Store leftover cookie bites in an airtight container for lasting freshness.
Don’t rush the mixing; ensuring even blending will lead to perfectly textured cookie bites.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowls: A large bowl and a small bowl work best.
Stand mixer or hand mixer: Either will do; use what you have!
8×8 inch pan: You can substitute with a similar-sized dish if needed.
Parchment paper: Wax paper can work in a pinch, but parchment is ideal.
Cutting board: Essential for cutting your dough into those delightful cubes.

Variations

Spiced Nut Variations: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to accommodate dietary needs.
Nutmeg Twist: Incorporate a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Mix in mini chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the spicy gingerbread.
Fruit-Filled Bites: Consider adding dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity surprise in each bite.

Serving Suggestions for Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites

Tea or Coffee: Pair these bites with a warm cup of spiced chai or rich coffee for a cozy treat.
Holiday Platter: Arrange them on a festive platter alongside other holiday cookies for a delightful dessert spread.
Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a fun and flavorful dessert combination.
Warm Milk: Drizzle with a little warm milk or cream for a comforting bite-sized snack.
Gift Idea: Package them in decorative boxes for charming homemade gifts during the holidays!

FAQs about Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites

Can I freeze the Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites?

Absolutely! These cookie bites freeze quite well. Just place them in an airtight container and store them in the freezer. They’ll stay fresh for up to three months!

How do I store leftover cookie bites?

Keep your Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay delicious for about a week, but good luck keeping them around that long!

Can I use different spices in the recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with spices like nutmeg or allspice. They’ll add a unique twist to your Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites and keep everyone guessing!

What can I use instead of molasses?

If molasses isn’t available, you can substitute it with honey or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will be a bit different, but they’ll still be tasty!

Are there any nut-free alternatives for this recipe?

Yes! You can easily make these cookie bites nut-free by ensuring your butter and any other ingredients are nut-free. Additionally, if you want to add some crunch, consider using sunflower seeds instead of nuts!

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about baking Easy Gingerbread Cookie Bites during the holiday season. The smell of them wafting through your home instantly creates an atmosphere of cheer and nostalgia. They’re not just treats; they’re tokens of love shared with family and friends. Plus, their simplicity allows even the busiest among us to join in on the festive fun. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and let these delightful cookies fill your holiday moments with joy. You’ll be making memories as you create these little bites of happiness!