There’s something magical about the aroma of ginger and spices wafting through your kitchen, especially during the holidays. With my Nutella Gingerbread Men, we’re taking traditional gingerbread cookies to a whole new level—one that's sweetened by the irresistible allure of Nutella. This recipe is not only a delightful treat for your taste buds but it's also a quick and easy option for festive gatherings, making them a perfect centerpiece for holiday cheer. Plus, they're a fun, hands-on project for both kids and adults, promising laughter and smiles as you sandwich the cookies together and decorate them in colorful sprinkles. Are you ready to make some unforgettable memories while baking? Let’s dive in!
Why are Nutella Gingerbread Men so special?
Delightful Flavor Fusion: Combining the warm spices of gingerbread with the creamy goodness of Nutella creates a taste sensation that's hard to resist.
Quick and Easy: This recipe is designed for busy bakers, ensuring you can whip up delicious holiday treats in no time.
Fun for All Ages: Gather the family for a joyful baking session—perfect for kids and adults alike! Don't miss out on these kid-friendly baking ideas to enhance the fun.
Elegant Decor: With colorful red and green decorations, these cookies double as festive décor for your holiday table.
Memorable Moments: Create lasting memories as you decorate your Nutella Gingerbread Men—it's a delightful way to celebrate the season.
Nutella Gingerbread Men Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- All-purpose flour – 3 cups will give your cookies the perfect structure.
- Baking soda – 1 teaspoon helps the cookies rise and become fluffy.
- Baking powder – 1 teaspoon adds extra leavening, ensuring a soft bite.
- Ground ginger – 1 tablespoon infuses warm, spicy notes throughout.
- Ground cinnamon – 1 tablespoon adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.
- Ground cloves – 1 teaspoon contributes a hint of earthiness to the mix.
- Salt – ½ teaspoon balances the sweetness of the sugars.
- Unsalted butter – ½ cup softened ensures the dough has a rich, buttery taste.
- Brown sugar – 1 cup packed adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor.
- Granulated sugar – ½ cup sweetens the cookies and enhances their color.
- Egg – 1 large egg binds the ingredients for a smooth dough.
- Molasses – ½ cup ensures a traditional gingerbread flavor and rich color.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon rounds out the flavors with a warm aroma.
For the Assembly
- Nutella – Generously spread for a creamy, decadent filling between cookies.
- Red and green decorations – Use these to add festive flair to your delightful Nutella Gingerbread Men.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nutella Gingerbread Men
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1 tablespoon of ground ginger, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground cloves, and ½ teaspoon of salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside while you prepare the wet ingredients, ensuring a perfect balance of spices in your Nutella Gingerbread Men.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In another large mixing bowl, use a handheld mixer to beat together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of packed brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the dough, which helps create deliciously soft cookies that will perfectly complement the Nutella filling.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add 1 large egg, ½ cup of molasses, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the bowl with the butter and sugar. Mix on medium speed until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth, about 1-2 minutes. This rich, flavorful blend will form the foundation of your Nutella Gingerbread Men dough.
Step 4: Mix in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring with a wooden spoon or spatula until a soft dough forms. This step ensures that all components are evenly incorporated, creating a thick and pliable dough that's perfect for rolling out and shaping into festive gingerbread men, full of those holiday flavors.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing it to firm up and develop its flavors. Chilling the dough is essential for easier handling when it’s time to roll it out and cut the gingerbread shapes—this will also ensure a perfect crunch when baked.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your workspace for rolling out the chilled dough. This ensures your Nutella Gingerbread Men will bake evenly and achieve a lovely golden color. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper, making cleanup a breeze!
Step 7: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator and roll it out to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a rolling pin and sprinkle more flour as needed to avoid sticking. Aim for a smooth, even surface that will allow you to cut out consistent cookie shapes for beautiful Nutella Gingerbread Men.
Step 8: Cut Out the Shapes
Using gingerbread man cookie cutters, cut out shapes from the rolled-out dough. Carefully place each cutout onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they’re spaced about 2 inches apart for even baking. This will create delightful little figures that will soon be transformed into delicious treats filled with Nutella.
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are firm and slightly golden. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent over-baking. Once done, the cookies should maintain their shape while delivering that wonderful warm gingerbread aroma throughout your kitchen.
Step 10: Cool the Cookies
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This step is important to allow the cookies to set and become sturdy enough to hold the delicious Nutella filling, ready for assembly.
Step 11: Assemble the Gingerbread Men
Once the cookies are completely cool, spread a generous amount of Nutella on half of the cookies. Top each with another cookie half to create delightful sandwiches, ensuring an even layer of the creamy filling. This delicious fusion of gingerbread and Nutella makes for an irresistible treat!
Step 12: Decorate Your Cookies
Finally, sprinkle festive red and green decorations on top of each filled gingerbread man to add a cheerful touch. This is the perfect opportunity to unleash your creativity, making each Nutella Gingerbread Man a unique centerpiece that will bring joy to holiday gatherings.
How to Store and Freeze Nutella Gingerbread Men
Room Temperature: Store your Nutella Gingerbread Men in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their soft texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just be sure to wrap them well to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For future enjoyment, freeze the assembled gingerbread men in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy them warm, gently reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes, keeping them soft and delicious!
Nutella Gingerbread Men Variations
Feel free to unleash your inner chef and personalize these delightful treats with some unique twists and swaps!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly version. Your cookies will still be deliciously chewy!
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Vegan Delight: Replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) and use vegan butter. They’ll be just as sweet and inviting.
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Chocolate Lovers: Add ½ cup of cocoa powder to the flour mix for a rich chocolate gingerbread experience. Who could resist chocolatey goodness?
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Spiced Up: For an extra kick, mix in ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or finely ground black pepper. It adds an unexpected warmth that’s absolutely captivating, turning ordinary into extraordinary!
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for added texture and a delightful crunch. It's a simple tweak that heightens your Nutella experience!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil in place of butter and opt for dairy-free chocolate hazelnut spread instead of Nutella. They'll still be scrumptious while catering to lactose sensitivities.
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Zesty Twist: Incorporate the zest of 1 orange into the dough to impart a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the warm spices beautifully. This refreshing note is sure to awaken your senses!
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Holiday Sprinkles: Swap plain red and green decorations with edible glitter or colorful nonpareils to give your Gingerbread Men a festive sparkle that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.
Whether you choose to indulge in a classic Nutella flavor or spice things up, your Nutella Gingerbread Men are sure to bring joy to everyone at the table. For even more festive fun, check out these kid-friendly baking ideas and create lasting memories together!
Tips for the Best Nutella Gingerbread Men
Chill the Dough:
Make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours. This step enhances the flavor and makes rolling easier, avoiding a sticky mess.
Check Baking Time:
Each oven is different, so keep an eye on your cookies starting at 8 minutes. They should be firm at the edges but soft in the center to ensure a chewy bite.
Even Spacing:
When placing your cutouts on the baking sheet, ensure there's adequate space between them. This prevents them from merging while baking, maintaining their charming gingerbread shapes.
Nutella Generosity:
Don’t skimp on the Nutella filling! A generous spread creates a delightful burst of flavor, balancing the spiciness of the gingerbread men.
Decorate Creatively:
Let your creativity shine when adding colorful decorations. Personalizing each Nutella Gingerbread Man makes the treats extra special and festive!
What to Serve with Nutella Gingerbread Men?
Enjoy the festive spirit with delightful pairings that enhance the joy of your Nutella Gingerbread Men.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: Rich and velvety, this drink balances the spiciness of gingerbread with sweet, comforting warmth.
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Spiced Chai Tea: Aromatic spices in this tea pair beautifully with the ginger flavor, creating a cozy holiday ambiance.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop adds a creamy contrast to the chewy cookies, making each bite a delightful experience.
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Frosted Sugar Cookies: These soft, sweet cookies provide a nice contrast to the rich Nutella, adding another layer of festive fun.
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Fruit Salad: Bright, fresh fruits like oranges and pomegranates offer a refreshing burst of flavor that complements the rich gingerbread.
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Mulled Wine: Warm, spiced, and slightly sweet, this classic holiday drink enhances the festive cheer alongside your cookies.
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Peppermint Bark: The crunchy, minty flavor of this treat brings a delightful contrast to the warm spices, making it perfect for holiday gatherings.
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Caramel Dip: A sweet, gooey caramel complements the gingerbread’s spice nicely and gives an indulgent twist to your festive snacks.
Make Ahead Options
These Nutella Gingerbread Men are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 2 days in advance by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating it. Chilling the dough not only makes it easier to roll out but also enhances the flavors. Additionally, you can bake the cookies up to 3 days ahead and store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. When you're ready to serve, simply assemble the cookies with Nutella and add your festive decorations right before your gathering, ensuring they are just as delicious as if they were made that day!
Nutella Gingerbread Men Recipe FAQs
What kind of flour should I use for Nutella Gingerbread Men?
Absolutely! For this recipe, I recommend using all-purpose flour, as it provides the perfect balance for structure and softness. You can also substitute whole wheat flour for a heartier texture, but keep in mind it may slightly alter the flavor.
How should I store Nutella Gingerbread Men?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to prolong their lifespan, keep them in the fridge for up to 1 week. Just make sure to wrap them tightly to prevent them from drying out!
Can I freeze Nutella Gingerbread Men?
Definitely! To freeze your assembled Nutella Gingerbread Men, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature. Alternatively, you can warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that fresh-baked feel!
What if my cookie dough is too sticky?
No worries! If you find the dough too sticky, it likely needs more time in the refrigerator. Try chilling it for another 30 minutes and then roll it out on a well-floured surface. This should help with managing stickiness, giving you smooth, easy-to-cut shapes.
Are Nutella Gingerbread Men safe for pets?
While Nutella is a delicious treat for humans, please be cautious as it contains ingredients that are not safe for pets, such as chocolate. Keep these delightful cookies out of reach of your furry friends to ensure their safety!
How can I make Nutella Gingerbread Men dairy-free?
Very! To create a dairy-free version, substitute the unsalted butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil. Ensure your Nutella is also dairy-free, as some varieties contain milk. With these tweaks, you can still enjoy these festive treats without dairy!
Nutella Gingerbread Men: Joyful Treats for the Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients until well combined.
- In another bowl, beat the butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
- Add the wet ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until smooth.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Cut out shapes using cookie cutters and place them on the baking sheets.
- Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes until edges are firm and slightly golden.
- Cool cookies on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- Spread Nutella on half of the cookies and top with another cookie half.
- Sprinkle with red and green decorations to finish.
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