What's jolly, nice and undoubtedly adorable? Gingerbread cookies, of course! As most people are ready to ring in the festive season, the table spread is never complete without such a classic dessert. After all, these cookies are THE epitome of Christmas which makes celebrating and entertaining (plus eating) even merrier.

If you've always been accustomed to buying the readymade ones in the past, then tis' the season for you to put those fingers to work. And what better way to try than by following this recipe below? 

Inspired by: Sally's Baking Addiction, Gimme Some Oven

What You'll Need:

- All-purpose flour, 438g

- Unsalted butter (softened to room temperature), 145g 

- Brown sugar, 150g 

- Molasses, 160ml (get it here)

- Egg, 1

- Ground ginger, 1 tablespoon  

- Ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon 

- Vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon

- Baking soda, 1 teaspoon

- Salt, 1/2 teaspoon 

- Ground cloves, 1/2 teaspoon 

Steps: 

1. Using a mixer, beat the butter and brown sugar until completely smooth. Next, add in egg and molasses, and beat on medium speed. 

2. In a bowl, whisk the following: flour, cinnamon, ginger, baking soda, cloves and salt. Then, gradually add into the mixer to combine with the wet ingredients.

3. Once the dough is formed, divide in half and form each into two equally-sized balls.

4. Pat down each ball into a thick disc and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Chill overnight. 

  
5. Place one unwrapped disc onto a lightly-floured board. Roll the dough evenly using a floured rolling pin.

6. Cut the dough into your desired shapes using cookie cutters. Repeat the rolling process to cut out more shapes. 

7. Transfer the dough shapes onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

8. Bake at 180°C for 10 minutes, or until cookies become crisp. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.

9. Once the cookies are cooled to room temperature, decorate as desired.