With the holiday season quickly approaching, our IQ living blog hopes to keep you posted on great seasonal recipes. Each week we will be offering helpful hints and suggestions to spice up old recipes and re-introduce you to timeless classics.

As the weather continues to drop, some of us at IQ have been dreaming of the staying indoors with the warm hot cacao and the scent of holiday treats baking in the oven. After all, who doesn't love a good holiday treat ? So this week we are highlighting one of the classic humble holiday cookies - one that will warm you up with every bite!

Gingerbread is one of those stalwarts at every holiday gathering. Although they are often overlooked, these crowd-pleasing and delightful treats are the perfect way to set the tone for your holiday gatherings.

Gingerbread can be a versatile holiday treat, they can be dressed up or dress down. They also can be a fun holiday decorating activity with friends and family! - Decorate your gingerbread men, women, or whatever your heart desires this holiday season with our great selection ofcookie cutters and molds and edible decorations!

As many of you may already know, the staff at IQ living come from diverse backgrounds, bringing with them unique perspectives on culinary life and entertaining.  We are always happy to help with any questions you may have about holiday gift ideas, cooking, baking, entertaining, serving, along with any problems you may run into. We are always more than happy to help!

Classic Gingerbread Cookies

 

Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Combine flour, soda, salt and spices. Whisk well to combine. In another large bowl, cream butter and sugar. Scrape down sides of bowl and add egg and molasses, beat by hand or with mixer until smooth. Scrape down sides again and then add flour mixture. Mix until combined.

Split dough in half or thirds, and roll each glob between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/4 inch thickness, and chill for 30 minutes.

Remove from refrigerator, and carefully lift off one sheet of parchment, then lightly dust the dough with flour. Replace the parchment, flip over and repeat.

Cut, stamp then bake on an un-greased cookie sheet for 12-14 minutes or until cookies begin brown around the edges. Leave plain or fill each cookie with your favorite icing and decorations.

 

This year add that extra hint of fun to your favorite holiday cookies with the Tovolo Ginger Girls and Ginger Boys Cookie Cutters. These cookie cutters will make decorating a breeze for the busy baker. They also provide a the perfect canvas for children helping out in the kitchen to add a bit of personality to the cookies!