Name: Gingerbread Latte Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 11 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 250 g all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 tablespoon espresso powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 150 g unsalted butter (softened to room temperature); 100 g brown sugar; 50 g granulated sugar; 100 g cooking molasses; 1 large egg (room temperature); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 30 g granulated sugar; 40 g powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon milk (dairy or non-dairy); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 38 reviews

If you love the cozy flavors of gingerbread combined with the rich, invigorating notes of coffee, you are going to fall head over heels for this Gingerbread Latte Cookies Recipe. These cookies perfectly capture that classic fall and winter vibe in every bite, balancing warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves with a hint of espresso and molasses sweetness. The result is a tender, slightly chewy treat with just the right amount of crackle on top—ideal for sharing with friends over a cup of latte or packing into your holiday cookie tin.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl placed on a white marbled surface. Inside the bowl, there is a rough, light brown dough mixture forming a ring around the edges. In the center of the dough, there is a dark thick liquid, likely molasses, partially mixed with a broken yellow egg yolk, some of which has spilled slightly into the dark liquid. The light and dark colors contrast clearly within the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun with this Gingerbread Latte Cookies Recipe. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether it’s the espresso powder bringing that essential latte kick or the molasses lending deep, rich sweetness and moist texture. Everything here is simple and easy to find but comes together to create these exceptional cookies.

250 g all-purpose flour: Provides the structure to hold all those lovely flavors together.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cookies rise slightly and spread just right.
1 tablespoon espresso powder: Adds subtle coffee depth that complements the gingerbread spices perfectly.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Gives that classic, warm spice note essential in gingerbread.
1 teaspoon ground ginger: Brings the signature zing that defines gingerbread flavor.
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Provides a gentle, aromatic spice bite for complexity.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a nutty warmth that rounds out the spices beautifully.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
150 g unsalted butter (softened): Gives richness and a tender crumb.
100 g brown sugar: Adds moisture and that subtle caramel flavor.
50 g granulated sugar: Helps create a slight crunch on the cookie’s exterior.
100 g cooking molasses: Key for the deep, dark sweetness and chewy texture unique to gingerbread.
1 large egg (room temperature): Binds everything while keeping the cookies moist.
1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances flavor and adds warmth.
30 g granulated sugar: For rolling the cookie balls to create a sparkling, pretty crust.
40 g powdered sugar: Used in the optional icing for a smooth, sweet finish.
1 teaspoon milk (dairy or non-dairy): Adjusts icing to the perfect drizzling consistency.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Boosts the icing’s flavor for extra indulgence.

How to Make Gingerbread Latte Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Dry Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper; this prevents sticking and helps you achieve even baking. Next, whisk together the flour, baking soda, espresso powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl. Combining these dry ingredients early ensures the spices disperse evenly in the dough for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed until it becomes pale and creamy—this usually takes a few minutes but is crucial for that light cookie texture. Then add both granulated and brown sugars and continue beating until the mixture is fluffy. This step incorporates air and helps your cookies develop that delightful tenderness.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Once your butter-sugar mixture looks fluffy and smooth, add the molasses, room temperature egg, and vanilla extract. Beat these together just until combined. The molasses is the star here, giving those Gingerbread Latte Cookies their signature rich, dark sweetness and moist crumb.

Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures

Pour the dry ingredients into the wet mixture and gently mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough. This careful mixing helps your cookies stay tender, with a perfect balance between chewy center and crackly top.

Step 5: Scoop and Chill the Dough

Use a 3-tablespoon cookie scooper to portion out dough balls onto a parchment-lined surface or cutting board. Chilling them for about 15 minutes until the outside feels dry makes rolling easier and prevents sticking. This small wait time helps the dough maintain its shape during baking.

Step 6: Roll in Sugar and Bake

Roll each dough ball between your hands to form a smooth sphere, then coat them generously in granulated sugar. This sugar coating not only adds a sweet crunch but also helps create those signature crackly tops on the cookies. Place the sugar-coated balls onto your baking sheet spaced about 2 inches apart to allow spreading. Bake for 10 to 11 minutes until the cookies are puffy but still soft. Once out of the oven, gently bang the baking sheet on a wire rack once to create charming cracks that give these cookies their inviting look.

Step 7: Cool and Optional Icing

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before moving them to a wire rack to cool completely. If you want to take these Gingerbread Latte Cookies to the next level, mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until thick but pourable, then drizzle on top for an elegant, sweet finish.

How to Serve Gingerbread Latte Cookies Recipe

The image shows a close-up of four stacked cookie halves on a white marbled surface. Each cookie is thick with a rich brown color and a slightly chewy texture, with visible small chunks inside. The edges are slightly rough and the top of the cookies has a light drizzle of white icing, adding a subtle contrast to the darker cookie layers. The background is softly blurred with hints of natural light and out-of-focus greenery, giving a fresh and cozy feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Decorating these cookies with a simple drizzle of vanilla glaze instantly makes them look festive and professional. For a pop of color and texture, try sprinkling finely chopped crystallized ginger or a dash of cinnamon on the icing before it sets. These little touches enhance the cozy spice experience you expect in a gingerbread latte-inspired treat.

Side Dishes

These cookies are a match made in heaven with cups of hot coffee or a creamy latte, echoing the espresso flavor embedded within. For a non-coffee tea option, serve alongside spiced chai or a warm cup of hot chocolate to complement the rich molasses notes. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side elevates this cookie break into a luxurious dessert.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday gatherings or gift-giving, stack these Gingerbread Latte Cookies between parchment paper in a festive tin or wrap them with a ribbon and a cinnamon stick for a rustic feel. You can also arrange them on a wooden board with some sprigs of fresh rosemary or pine to enhance the warm seasonal vibe. Serving with mini glass bottles of your favorite latte mix on the side creates a charming “cookie and latte” gift set.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Gingerbread Latte Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and flavorful for up to a week. Place a slice of bread inside the container to help maintain moisture and keep the cookies from hardening overnight—such a simple kitchen hack!

Freezing

If you want to make these cookies ahead of time or save some for later, you can freeze the unbaked dough balls on a parchment-lined tray. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a sealed freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen but add a couple extra minutes to the baking time. Alternatively, fully baked cookies freeze well too—just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

To revive slightly stale cookies, warm them in a 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. This brings back their fresh-baked softness and enhances the aroma. Avoid microwaving as it tends to dry them out quickly.

FAQs

Can I use instant coffee instead of espresso powder?

Yes! Instant coffee granules work just fine in this Gingerbread Latte Cookies Recipe. You’ll still get that lovely coffee undertone. Just make sure it’s finely ground so it blends seamlessly into the dough.

Is molasses necessary, or can I substitute it?

Molasses is key for the flavor and moist texture of these cookies. You can substitute with dark corn syrup or blackstrap molasses for a stronger taste, but regular molasses will provide the richest, most authentic gingerbread experience.

How soft or crunchy are these cookies?

These cookies have a soft, chewy center with a slightly crisp, crackled exterior—perfect for that comforting bite. They are not overly crunchy, making them ideal for dunking in your favorite hot beverage.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use a flax or chia egg in place of the chicken egg. Also, ensure your molasses and sugars are vegan-friendly. The flavor might be slightly different, but still delicious.

Do I have to add the icing?

The icing is completely optional. The cookies are delightful on their own, but the vanilla glaze adds a sweet, decorative touch that pairs beautifully with the spicy flavors. It’s up to your personal preference!

Final Thoughts

This Gingerbread Latte Cookies Recipe is an absolute treasure for anyone who treasures the comforting flavors of the season wrapped up in a cozy little cookie. From the warm, spicy notes to the gentle espresso kick and the tender texture, it is a recipe you will want to make again and again. So gather your ingredients, have fun baking, and get ready to enjoy a batch of cookies that feels like a warm hug. Your next coffee break just found its new favorite companion.