As I sifted through the spices, the warm aromas of ginger and cinnamon danced through the air, instantly whisking me back to childhood holiday memories. Today, I’m sharing a twist on the classic holiday treat with my Nutella Gingerbread Men that will surely become a family favorite. This fun and festive recipe not only gives a delightful nod to traditional gingerbread but also adds a rich, creamy layer of Nutella that transforms each cookie into a delicious surprise. With quick prep time and a no-fuss filling method, these cookies are perfect for sharing or indulging in yourself. Are you ready to bring warmth and sweetness to your kitchen this season? Let’s dive into this irresistible baking adventure!
Why Are Nutella Gingerbread Men a Must-Try?
Deliciously Unique: These cookies blend traditional gingerbread with the beloved flavor of Nutella, creating a delightful contrast that will leave you craving more.
Easily Customizable: Feel free to switch decorations for any occasion—sprinkles, candy, or even icing can make these gingerbread men truly your own!
Quick and Simple Prep: With just 20 minutes of hands-on time, they’re an effortless treat that can be ready to share in no time.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: Whether at a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, these Nutella Gingerbread Men are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Perfect Holiday Activity: Get creative with loved ones by decorating cookies together for a fun and memorable experience!
Want more festive fun? Check out my Gingerbread Cookie Decorating Tips for ideas that will make your cookies shine.
Nutella Gingerbread Men Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- All-purpose flour – 3 cups are needed to provide the structure and texture for your Nutella Gingerbread Men.
- Baking soda – 1 tablespoon; helps the cookies rise beautifully while maintaining a soft bite.
- Baking powder – 1 tablespoon; adds extra lift for a delightful chewiness.
- Ground ginger – 1 tablespoon; the warm spice offers that classic gingerbread flavor we all adore.
- Ground cinnamon – 2 teaspoons; enhances the festive aroma and taste of the cookies.
- Ground cloves – 1 teaspoon; this bold spice adds a touch of depth and warmth to your dough.
- Salt – 1 teaspoon; balances the sweetness and elevates all the flavors in your cookies.
- Unsalted butter – 1 cup, softened; brings richness and helps in achieving the perfect dough consistency.
- Brown sugar – 1 cup; adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor to each bite.
- Granulated sugar – ½ cup; provides just the right amount of sweetness to contrast the spices.
- Large egg – 1; binds the ingredients together for a smooth cookie dough.
- Molasses – ½ cup; lends that iconic gingerbread flavor and gives the cookies a deep color.
- Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon; rounds out the flavors and adds a cozy note of sweetness.
For the Filling
- Nutella – A generous dollop for each cookie; injects a rich and creamy surprise into your Nutella Gingerbread Men.
For Decorating
- Red and green decorations – Get creative! These festive pops of color will make your cookies merry and bright.
Now, let’s get to baking! This cozy recipe will fill your home with the most delightful scents, making your kitchen a true holiday haven.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Nutella Gingerbread Men
Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
Begin your holiday baking by whisking together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, 1 tablespoon of ground ginger, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1 teaspoon of salt in a large bowl. This aromatic blend will serve as the backbone of your Nutella Gingerbread Men, so make sure it’s well combined before moving on to the next step.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a separate large mixing bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of brown sugar, and ½ cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Using an electric mixer makes this process smoother. You’ll know it’s ready when the texture is creamy and the color is a pale yellow, which will add richness to your delightful cookies.
Step 3: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Next, crack in 1 large egg and pour in ½ cup of molasses along with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix everything thoroughly until the mixture is well combined and smooth, about another 1-2 minutes. This step infuses your Nutella Gingerbread Men with warmth and sweetness, setting the stage for the soft, delectable cookies to come.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to ensure that there are no dry spots, and the dough is cohesive. This phase is critical in achieving the perfect texture for your Nutella Gingerbread Men, so take your time to blend them thoroughly before wrapping.
Step 5: Chill the Dough
Once your dough is formed, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld and prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking. When you’re ready to continue, the dough will be firm to the touch, making it easier to roll out.
Step 6: Preheat the Oven
As your dough chills, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready and waiting for those delicious Nutella Gingerbread Men. Preheating ensures that the cookies bake evenly and develop that delightful, slightly crisp exterior while remaining soft on the inside.
Step 7: Roll Out the Dough
After chilling, take the dough out and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about ¼-inch thickness, using a rolling pin. The thickness will dictate the texture of your cookies, so aim for even consistency throughout. If the dough is a bit sticky, sprinkle flour as needed for easier handling.
Step 8: Cut Out Cookies
Utilize gingerbread man cookie cutters to cut out the shapes, placing each cookie on ungreased baking sheets lined with parchment paper. You can fit several cutouts on each sheet while ensuring they have a bit of space to expand. This step adds a festive spirit to your Nutella Gingerbread Men, making them as fun to look at as they are to eat!
Step 9: Bake the Cookies
Now, pop the baking sheets into your preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies; they're ready when the edges are firm, and the tops have just started to puff. Allow them to cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely, preventing them from becoming too soft.
Step 10: Fill with Nutella
Once your cookies are cool, generously spread Nutella on the flat side of half the cookies. Make sure to apply enough to create a luscious filling, then place another cookie half on top to form delightful little sandwiches. The creamy Nutella adds a rich surprise that beautifully complements the spiced gingerbread.
Step 11: Decorate Your Cookies
Finally, get creative by decorating each filled gingerbread man with red and green decorations to bring them to life! Use festive sprinkles or candies to transform these Nutella Gingerbread Men into cheerful holiday treats. This final step is where your personality can shine, making each cookie uniquely yours.
What to Serve with Nutella Gingerbread Men
Indulging in these delightful treats opens up a world of festive flavors that will fill your table with warmth and cheer.
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Creamy Hot Chocolate: This velvety drink offers a rich contrast to the spiced cookies, making every sip a delightful experience on chilly days. There’s something about a warm mug that comforts the soul, especially when paired with sweet treats!
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Spiced Apple Cider: This warm and fragrant drink is both refreshing and comforting, featuring hints of cinnamon and cloves, which complements the gingerbread’s spices beautifully. Serve it warm with a cinnamon stick to turn your gathering into a cozy holiday celebration.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth vanilla ice cream adds a creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the Nutella, creating a dreamy dessert. Imagine taking a bite of a cookie sandwich alongside a cool, melty scoop—pure bliss!
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Gingerbread Layer Cake: For a true gingerbread lovers’ feast, a layered gingerbread cake brings added texture and flavor, infusing your dessert table with holiday charm. Each slice beautifully echoes the flavors of your Nutella Gingerbread Men, creating a cohesive and festive spread.
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Christmas Fruit Salad: Fresh fruits like pomegranate seeds, oranges, and apples add a refreshing burst of flavor that lightens the feast's overall sweetness. It’s a vibrant and healthy option that ensures your holiday table isn’t all about indulgence.
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Nutty Chai Tea: The warm spices of chai tea complement the gingerbread flavors perfectly, creating a harmonious pairing that warms the heart and soul. Sip on this fragrant brew as you nibble on your cookies—perfect for a cozy evening in.
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Peppermint Bark: Offering a festive crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft cookies, peppermint bark adds a refreshing minty twist. Cut into bite-sized pieces, it serves as a delightful finishing touch to your holiday dessert lineup.
Each of these selections elevates your Nutella Gingerbread Men experience, turning delightful snacks into an unforgettable holiday feast!
Nutella Gingerbread Men Variations
Feel free to personalize your Nutella Gingerbread Men with these fun and delicious twists that will enhance their flavors and textures!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend to make these cookies accessible for everyone.
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Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the spices for a delightful, unexpected heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweet Nutella.
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Nut-Free: Use a creamy yogurt or whipped cream cheese instead of Nutella for a different filling option that keeps your cookies deliciously sweet.
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Vegan: Replace the egg with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use vegan butter to create a plant-based version of these festive treats.
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Chocolate Delight: Mix in ½ cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients to turn the cookie dough into chocolate gingerbread, doubling the indulgence!
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Dried Fruit: Stir in ½ cup of finely chopped dried cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture and burst of flavor, making these cookies extra special.
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Herbal Twist: Infuse your dough with a teaspoon of fresh grated zest from an orange or lemon, adding a bright citrus note that pairs wonderfully with the spices.
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Swirled Surprise: After spreading Nutella, add a swirl of raspberry jam before topping with another cookie half for a fruity twist that will awaken your taste buds!
Mix and match these variations to create your perfect Nutella Gingerbread Men! If you're looking for more holiday inspiration, don’t miss my Gingerbread Cookie Decorating Tips and discover how to make these cookies shine.
Helpful Tricks for Nutella Gingerbread Men
**Chill the Dough: ** Ensure you chill the dough for at least 2 hours. This crucial step helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
**Avoid Overmixing: ** After combining dry and wet ingredients, mix just until a soft dough forms. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of soft, chewy Nutella Gingerbread Men.
**Watch the Bake Time: ** Keep an eye on the cookies while baking, as they can go from perfectly baked to overdone quickly. The edges should be firm, but the centers can remain soft.
**Spacing Matters: ** When placing cookies on the baking sheet, leave enough space between each one to allow for expansion. This prevents them from sticking together during baking.
**Decorative Fun: ** Let your creativity shine through decorating! Use red and green decorations to make your Nutella Gingerbread Men festive and inviting for holiday gatherings.
How to Store and Freeze Nutella Gingerbread Men
Room Temperature: Keep your Nutella Gingerbread Men in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you prefer a chewier texture, store the cookies in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Just let them sit at room temperature for a few minutes before enjoying!
Freezer: To freeze, place the filled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can be kept for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen Nutella Gingerbread Men, simply thaw them at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed.
Make Ahead Options
These Nutella Gingerbread Men are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts, allowing you to enjoy warm, festive cookies even on the busiest days! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it to maintain freshness and prevent browning. When you’re ready, roll out the chilled dough and cut out your shapes, followed by baking. You can even bake the cookies up to 3 days ahead of time; just store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them soft. When you're ready to serve, assemble the sandwiches with Nutella and decorate them to add a personal touch. Enjoy stress-free holiday baking!
Nutella Gingerbread Men Recipe FAQs
What kind of molasses should I use for Nutella Gingerbread Men?
I recommend using unsulfured molasses for the best flavor in your Nutella Gingerbread Men. It has a rich, mild taste that complements the spices perfectly. If you can’t find unsulfured, light molasses is a good alternative, but avoid blackstrap molasses as it's too bitter for these cookies.
How do I know when my dough has chilled enough?
The dough should be firm to the touch after chilling for at least 2 hours. A good visual cue is if the dough holds its shape when you press it gently with your finger. It shouldn't feel sticky but should still be slightly pliable, making it easier to roll out and cut.
How should I store leftover Nutella Gingerbread Men?
To store your Nutella Gingerbread Men, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the freshest taste. Alternatively, you can keep them in the refrigerator in a sealed container for about 5 days if you prefer a chewier texture. Just let them come to room temperature before enjoying!
Can I freeze Nutella Gingerbread Men, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze the filled cookies, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once they're frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can keep them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds until warmed.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your Nutella Gingerbread Men spread too much, it's often due to the dough being too soft or not chilled enough. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 2 hours and let it firm up before rolling. Also, ensure your baking sheets are ungreased, as greasing them can contribute to spreading. If all else fails, you can always reshape them while they’re still warm!
Are there any dietary considerations for making Nutella Gingerbread Men?
Yes! If you have allergies, be cautious with Nutella as it contains hazelnuts and dairy. For a nut-free version, you can use sunbutter or any nut-free chocolate spread as a filling instead. It's always a good idea to check ingredients if you're cooking for someone with food allergies.
Nutella Gingerbread Men: A Festive Twist on a Classic Treat
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Rolling Pin
- Gingerbread man cookie cutters
- Baking Sheets
- parchment paper
Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking soda
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 0.5 cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling
- 1 dollop Nutella for each cookie
For Decorating
- red and green decorations for festive decor
Instructions
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
- Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt in a large bowl.
- Cream together unsalted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate large egg, molasses, and vanilla extract into the mixture until smooth.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
- Wrap dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thickness on a floured surface.
- Cut out cookie shapes using gingerbread man cookie cutters and place on baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
- Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes until the edges are firm.
- Allow cookies to cool before filling with Nutella.
- Decorate filled cookies with red and green decorations.
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