Name: Gingerbread Latte Cookies: Soft, Chewy Holiday Treats
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 41 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour (substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version); 1 teaspoon baking soda (always use fresh for optimal results); 2 tablespoons espresso powder (instant coffee powder can be used if necessary); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adjust amounts to your taste preference); 1 teaspoon ground ginger (adjust amounts to your taste preference); 1 teaspoon ground cloves (adjust amounts to your taste preference); 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (adjust amounts to your taste preference); 1 teaspoon salt (a must for sweet treats); ¾ cup unsalted butter (make sure it's at room temperature for easy creaming); ¾ cup brown sugar (can be light or dark based on preference); ½ cup granulated sugar (for added sweetness and a crunchy exterior); ½ cup cooking molasses (choose from light, dark, or unsulfured varieties); 1 large egg (make sure it’s at room temperature for best results); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (opt for pure vanilla extract for maximum taste); 1 cup powdered sugar (sift it for an irresistibly creamy finish); 2 tablespoons milk (dairy or non-dairy alternatives work equally well); ½ cup granulated sugar (for rolling the cookie dough balls)

As the air turns crisp and festive flavors begin to emerge, I find myself daydreaming about the delightful aromas wafting from the kitchen. There’s something truly magical about the combination of warm spices and rich coffee that can make even the dreariest of days feel special. That’s where my Gingerbread Latte Cookies come into play—these soft and chewy treats are not only a delicious way to embrace the season, but they’re also a quick and crowd-pleasing addition to your holiday baking lineup. Dressed with a sugary crunch and a whimsical icing drizzle, each bite reveals a cozy espresso flavor that’s perfect for your next gathering or a quiet evening at home. Curious how to whip up these festive delights? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why will you adore Gingerbread Latte Cookies?

Irresistible flavors: The combination of warm spices and rich espresso creates a vibrant taste that captures the essence of the holidays.

Decadent Texture: Enjoy a perfect balance of softness and chewiness, resembling a cozy gingerbread latte in cookie form.

Quick & Easy: With straightforward instructions, you’ll have a festive treat ready in no time.

Hosting Essential: These cookies are sure to impress your friends and family, making them an instant crowd favorite during gatherings. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee or holiday spiced tea for that extra cozy touch!

Versatile Base: Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips for a delightful twist, just like my Cinnamon Roll Cookies bring a twist to classic flavors.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the dough in advance and store it in the freezer, so you’re ready to bake fresh cookies whenever you need them!

Gingerbread Latte Cookies Ingredients

• For the Cookie Dough

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cookies; substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to help cookies puff while baking; always use fresh for optimal results.
Espresso Powder – Adds the essential coffee flavor for our gingerbread latte cookies; instant coffee powder can be used if necessary.
Ground Cinnamon, Ginger, Cloves, Nutmeg – Infuses warmth and festivity, characteristic of traditional gingerbread; adjust amounts to your taste preference.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor balance; a must for sweet treats.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy creaming.
Brown Sugar – Introduces moisture and caramel flavor; can be light or dark based on preference.
Granulated Sugar – For added sweetness and a crunchy exterior.
Cooking Molasses – Vital for achieving that chewy texture and deep flavor; choose from light, dark, or unsulfured varieties.
Large Egg – Binds ingredients together and aids in leavening; make sure it’s at room temperature for best results.
Vanilla Extract – Boosts flavor complexity; opt for pure vanilla extract for maximum taste.

• For the Icing

Powdered Sugar – Used to create a smooth icing; sift it for an irresistibly creamy finish.
Milk – Adds moisture to the icing; dairy or non-dairy alternatives work equally well.

• For Rolling

Granulated Sugar – For rolling the cookie dough balls, which gives a sugary exterior.

Feel excited to bake these Gingerbread Latte Cookies? Let’s make your holiday celebrations even cozier!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gingerbread Latte Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, which will ensure your Gingerbread Latte Cookies bake evenly and won’t stick. This step allows you to prepare the necessary equipment while the oven is warming up for optimal baking conditions.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 tablespoons of espresso powder, and your chosen spices—ground cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. This dry mix creates a harmonious blend of ingredients that will define the taste of your cookies.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat ¾ cup of softened unsalted butter with a hand mixer until creamy, about 1-2 minutes. Gradually add ½ cup of granulated sugar and ¾ cup of brown sugar, mixing until the mixture is fluffy and light in color. This process incorporates air, ensuring your Gingerbread Latte Cookies are soft and chewy.

Step 4: Mix in the Wet Ingredients
Add ½ cup of cooking molasses, 1 large room-temperature egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Beat until all ingredients are fully combined and smooth, approximately 2-3 minutes. This will create a beautifully rich and flavorful base for your cookie dough.

Step 5: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the prepared dry mixture into the wet mixture. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, mix gently until just combined; do not overmix. You want a thick dough that holds together well—this is crucial for achieving that chewy texture in your Gingerbread Latte Cookies.

Step 6: Scoop and Chill the Dough
Using a 3-tablespoon cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto a plate. Once all dough balls are formed, chill them in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes, which helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking. This step is key to creating the ideal cookie shape.

Step 7: Roll in Sugar
After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Roll each portion into balls using your hands and then roll them in granulated sugar to coat. Place the sugar-coated balls on the lined baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading while baking.

Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake your Gingerbread Latte Cookies in the preheated oven for 10-11 minutes. Monitor for puffiness; they should look set but still soft in the center. After baking, gently bang the tray on the counter to help form cracks, creating that beloved chewy texture we’re aiming for.

Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Once baked, allow the cookies to cool for about 10 minutes on the baking sheet. This resting time is essential for them to firm up. Afterward, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This ensures they maintain their soft, chewy consistency.

Step 10: Prepare the Icing
While the cookies cool, whisk together 1 cup of sifted powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of milk, and a few drops of vanilla extract in a small bowl. Mix until the icing reaches a thick yet drizzleable consistency. This delightful icing adds that finishing touch to your Gingerbread Latte Cookies.

Step 11: Drizzle the Icing
Once the cookies are cool, use a spoon or piping bag to drizzle the icing over each cookie as desired. The whimsical icing brings a festive flair to your treats while complementing the spices and espresso flavors beautifully, making your Gingerbread Latte Cookies truly irresistible.

Gingerbread Latte Cookies Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists and substitutes to customize your gingerbread latte cookies!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously accommodating version.
Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and non-dairy milk for the icing to make these cookies just as scrumptious without dairy.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Fold in chocolate chips or chunks for a rich chocolatey twist; nothing better than espresso and chocolate together!
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of ground black pepper to elevate the spice level for those who like a little heat.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture and a crunchy finish that complements the soft cookie.
Almond Twist: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a unique flavor profile that’s both nutty and sweet, reminiscent of festive nut confections.
Extra Sweetness: Drizzle caramel sauce over the icing for an indulgent, sweet contrast—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Cozy Maple: Use maple syrup in place of some or all of the molasses for a warm and comforting flavor that enhances the holiday vibes.

If you enjoy these variations, be sure to check out my delightful Cinnamon Roll Cookies or the chocolatey goodness of Chocolate Chip Cookies for more inspiration!

How to Store and Freeze Gingerbread Latte Cookies

Airtight Container: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps them soft and chewy without drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cookies for up to 1 month. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking.

Thawing Instructions: To enjoy your frozen Gingerbread Latte Cookies, thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.

Make-Ahead Advantage: You can also prepare and freeze the cookie dough in advance. Just scoop into balls, freeze, and store until you’re ready to bake fresh cookies!

What to Serve with Gingerbread Latte Cookies

Cozy up your holiday gatherings with delightful pairings that enhance the festive flavors of these delicious cookies.

Rich Hot Chocolate: The creamy sweetness of a warm cup of hot chocolate complements the spicy notes of gingerbread perfectly, creating a blissful dessert experience.
Creamy Eggnog: Embrace the season with a glass of rich eggnog. Its creamy and spiced flavor enhances the coffee-infused gingerbread latte cookies beautifully.
Warm Spiced Tea: A steaming cup of cinnamon or chai tea pairs wonderfully with the bold espresso flavor, providing a cozy warmth for those chilly nights.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delectable contrast of temperatures and smoothness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Holiday Fruit Salad: A bright mixture of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing touch to balance out the cookies’ sweetness, creating a well-rounded dessert table.
Mulled Wine: For an adult twist, serve a glass of spiced mulled wine. Warm and aromatic, it enhances the festive vibe while complementing the cookies’ flavors wonderfully.

Expert Tips for Gingerbread Latte Cookies

Chill the Dough: Always ensure to chill your cookie dough for at least 15 minutes to prevent excessive spreading during baking. A firm dough creates that perfect chewy texture!
Use Fresh Ingredients: Check the freshness of your baking soda and spices. Old ingredients can diminish flavor and affect the texture of your Gingerbread Latte Cookies.
Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to experiment with the spices according to your taste. Ginger, cinnamon, and cloves can be increased for a more robust flavor.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the cookies while baking. They should be puffy and slightly soft in the center—overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
Experiment with Icing: For an extra touch, add a splash of almond or coffee liqueur to your icing. This will deepen the flavors and enhance the holiday vibe of your Gingerbread Latte Cookies.

Make Ahead Options

These Gingerbread Latte Cookies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop the dough into balls, roll them in granulated sugar, and chill them in the refrigerator. For even longer storage, freeze the dough balls for up to 3 months—just make sure to space them on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. To finish, bake the frozen cookies straight from the freezer for a few extra minutes, ensuring they remain just as delicious and chewy as if made fresh. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have festive treats ready whenever you crave them!

Gingerbread Latte Cookies Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting ingredients for Gingerbread Latte Cookies?
Absolutely! Choose all-purpose flour that is fresh and free of lumps for the best structure. When picking spices, look for vibrant colors and strong aromas; they should enhance the rich flavors of the cookies. Ensure your molasses is unsulfured for a superior taste, and check that your baking soda is fresh (look for the expiration date) to ensure proper leavening.

How should I store Gingerbread Latte Cookies to keep them fresh?
Very! Store your Gingerbread Latte Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps to maintain their delightful softness and chewiness. If you have any left after a week, you can place a slice of bread in the container; it helps to retain moisture and keeps the cookies fresh for longer!

Can I freeze Gingerbread Latte Cookies?
Absolutely! You can freeze your cookies for up to 1 month. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. Don’t forget to label and date your container! When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw them at room temperature for about 30 minutes before enjoying.

What should I do if my Gingerbread Latte Cookies spread too much during baking?
No worries at all! If your cookies spread too much, it could be due to warm dough. Make sure to chill it for at least 15 minutes before baking. Also, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer; sometimes they run hot! Additionally, ensure that you’ve measured all your ingredients accurately, as excess liquid can lead to spreading.

Are Gingerbread Latte Cookies suitable for people with allergies?
Great question! These cookies contain common allergens like gluten and eggs. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. You can use a flaxseed or chia seed mixture (1 tablespoon of ground seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as an egg replacement. Always check labels on your ingredients to avoid cross-contamination if allergies are a concern!