Gingerbread Hearts with Dark Chocolate Glaze

Name: Gingerbread Hearts with Dark Chocolate Glaze
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 cookies
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 2 teaspoons ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup molasses; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Deliciously spiced gingerbread hearts adorned with a rich dark chocolate glaze, perfect for the holiday season.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T18:41:51.561Z

These Gingerbread Hearts are a delightful treat, bringing warmth and joy with every bite. The combination of aromatic spices and rich chocolate will make these cookies a holiday favorite.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Spicy warmth from ginger and cinnamon
Decadent dark chocolate glaze adds a luxurious touch
Perfect for gifting or decorating your holiday table

      

A Holiday Tradition

Gingerbread cookies have been a beloved holiday treat for centuries. Their warm, spicy aroma fills the home with the spirit of the season, making them perfect for festive gatherings. The tradition of baking gingerbread dates back to ancient civilizations, but it gained popularity in Europe during the Middle Ages. Today, these delightful cookies are often shaped into festive designs, like hearts, adding a personal touch to holiday celebrations.

These Gingerbread Hearts with Dark Chocolate Glaze not only taste fantastic but also bring an element of creativity to your holiday festivities. They can be decorated with icing or sprinkles, making them a fun project for families and friends to enjoy together. Whether you choose to hang them on your tree or present them as gifts, these cookies are sure to spread joy and cheer.

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

The combination of spices in this gingerbread recipe creates a wonderfully complex flavor profile. Ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves work harmoniously to provide warmth and depth, while molasses adds a rich sweetness that balances the spices. This balance makes each bite of the gingerbread heart a delightful experience that keeps you coming back for more.

The addition of a decadent dark chocolate glaze elevates these cookies further. The bittersweet chocolate contrasts beautifully with the spiced gingerbread, creating a rich and satisfying treat. This glaze not only enhances the flavor but also adds a luxurious touch, making these cookies perfect for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence during the holiday season.

Gifting and Sharing

Gingerbread Hearts with Dark Chocolate Glaze make for an excellent gift during the holidays. Their charming shape and festive appearance are sure to delight anyone who receives them. Consider packaging them in a decorative box or tin, perhaps with a handwritten note for a personal touch. These cookies are not just treats; they are a heartfelt gesture of love and warmth.

In addition to gifting, these cookies are perfect for sharing at holiday parties or cookie exchanges. Their unique flavor and beautiful presentation will impress your friends and family. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and stored, ensuring you always have a delightful treat on hand to share with guests or to enjoy yourself.

Ingredients

Gingerbread Cookies

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1 large egg
1/2 cup molasses

Dark Chocolate Glaze

1 cup dark chocolate chips
1 tablespoon coconut oil

Mix and match your favorite spices for a personalized touch!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. In another bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and molasses. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until combined.

Chill and Roll

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thick.

Cut out heart shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are firm. Let cool on a wire rack.

Make the Glaze

In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the dark chocolate chips and coconut oil. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until melted and smooth.

Glaze the Cookies

Dip the tops of the cooled cookies into the chocolate glaze and let them set on a wire rack.

Enjoy your delightful gingerbread hearts!

Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Hearts

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your gingerbread hearts, ensure your butter is softened to room temperature before creaming with the brown sugar. This step allows for better incorporation of air, resulting in a lighter cookie. Additionally, measuring your flour accurately is crucial; too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Use the spoon-and-level method for best results.

Don't skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the dough not only makes it easier to roll out but also helps the flavors meld together. If you find the dough too sticky, dust your surface and rolling pin with flour to prevent sticking. This will help you achieve the perfect thickness for your cookies.

Storing Your Cookies

To keep your Gingerbread Hearts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, maintaining their delightful flavor and texture. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing the unglazed cookies. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw and glaze them as desired.

If you've glazed your cookies, it's best to consume them within a few days, as the chocolate may start to lose its shine or become dull over time. However, even if the glaze loses its luster, the flavor will still be delicious, allowing you to savor your creation well into the holiday season.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different spices to create your own unique twist on gingerbread. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can introduce new flavors that complement the classic ginger and cinnamon. For a hint of zest, consider incorporating finely grated orange or lemon peel into the dough for a refreshing citrus note.

You can also customize the chocolate glaze by using milk chocolate or white chocolate, depending on your taste preferences. For a festive touch, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies or colorful sprinkles on top of the glaze for added visual appeal and flavor. These variations will keep your holiday baking exciting and enjoyable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of flour?

Yes, you can substitute with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of molasses?

You can substitute with honey or maple syrup, though the flavor will be slightly different.