Classic Gingerbread Cookies with a Healthy Twist By Crushed Tonic

As the holiday season approaches, nothing brings out the festive cheer quite like the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread cookies. These cookies not only capture the essence of the season with warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, but they also offer a healthier twist thanks to the addition of vanilla bean collagen powder. Whether you're baking for family, friends, or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon at home, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free flour blend for a GF option)
• 1/4 cup vanilla bean collagen powder
• 1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (or coconut oil for a dairy-free version)
• 1/3 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
• 1/3 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients: flour, vanilla bean collagen powder, ground ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

2. Cream the Wet Ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to cream together the softened butter (or coconut oil) and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a dough forms. Be careful not to overmix. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

4. Roll Out the Dough:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin, then roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your favorite holiday cookie cutters to shape the dough into festive designs.

5. Bake:
   Place the cookie shapes onto a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are just slightly browned. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

6. Decorate:
   Once cooled, have fun decorating your gingerbread cookies with royal icing, sprinkles, or any other festive toppings of your choice.

Why Add Collagen Powder?

Collagen is known for its numerous health benefits, including supporting skin elasticity, joint health, and gut health. Adding vanilla bean collagen powder to this recipe enhances the nutritional value without compromising on flavor. It’s a simple way to make holiday treats a bit more wholesome.

Pro Tips:

• For a crispier texture, roll the dough thinner and bake for an extra minute or two.
• If you prefer soft and chewy gingerbread cookies, make sure not to overbake them.

Conclusion:
These gingerbread cookies are not just a treat for the taste buds but also bring a dose of nutrition to your holiday baking. With the option to make them gluten-free and dairy-free, they cater to a wide range of dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy a taste of the holidays. Gather your loved ones, turn on some festive music, and start baking!

Let us know in the comments how your cookies turned out, or share photos of your beautifully decorated creations. Happy Holidays!