Disneyland Gingerbread Copycat Recipe

Gingerbread Cookies with Royal Icing
Yields: 3 dozen cookies

Ingredients

For the Cookies:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup dark molasses
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 3 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
• 1/2 cup water

For the Royal Icing:

• 1/8 tsp cream of tartar
• 2 pasteurized egg whites
• 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• Food coloring (optional)
• Heavy cream (optional, for thinning)

Instructions

Gingerbread Cookies:

1. Prepare the Dough:

   • In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy. Mix in the molasses until fully combined.
   • In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and cardamom.

2. Combine Ingredients:

   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in thirds, alternating with water. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
   • Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.

3. Shape and Bake:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Roll the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
   • Transfer the cookies to the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
   • Cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Royal Icing:

1. Prepare the Icing:

   • In a mixing bowl, combine cream of tartar and egg whites. Beat at high speed with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
   • Reduce the speed and gradually add the sifted powdered sugar. Mix until the icing reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency.

2. Customize:

   • Divide the icing into separate bowls if using food coloring. Mix in desired colors.
   • If the icing is too thick, add heavy cream a teaspoon at a time to thin it to your preference.

3. Decorate:

   • Use the royal icing to decorate the cooled gingerbread cookies. Allow the icing to harden completely before storing.

Enjoy these festive gingerbread cookies as a holiday treat or a fun activity with family and friends!