Soft and Chewy Honey Cookies Recipe

A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion

Nothing beats the comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house. If you’re looking for a soft and chewy treat with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, these Soft and Chewy Honey Cookies are a must-try. With hints of cinnamon and ginger, a touch of vanilla, and the natural richness of honey, these cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect Texture: Soft, chewy, and just the right amount of crispiness on the edges.
  • Natural Sweetness: The honey adds a depth of flavor and helps keep the cookies moist.
  • Simple Ingredients: No fancy ingredients—just pantry staples you likely already have.
  • Versatile: Enjoy them with tea, coffee, or even as a dessert with a scoop of ice cream.

Who Is This Recipe For?

Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof. These cookies are great for:

  • Holiday baking and cookie exchanges
  • A cozy afternoon snack
  • A homemade gift for friends and family
  • Anyone who loves honey-flavored desserts

Ingredients You’ll Need

Dry Ingredients:

  • 2 & 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Rolling:

  • 1/3 cup vanilla sugar or coarse granulated sugar

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make these delicious honey cookies, you’ll need:

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Microwave or stovetop (to melt butter and honey)
  • Plastic wrap (for chilling dough)
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Cookie scoop (optional but helpful)
  • Cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside. This prevents the cookies from sticking and ensures easy cleanup.

Step 2: Melt Butter and Sweeteners

In a large bowl, melt the butter, honey, brown sugar, and granulated sugar together in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each session until fully melted and combined.

Step 3: Mix in Egg and Vanilla

Let the melted mixture cool slightly, then whisk in the egg and vanilla extract. This ensures the egg doesn’t cook from the residual heat.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cornstarch, and salt. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients just until combined. The dough will be soft.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Wrap the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour and 15 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to roll into balls and preventing the cookies from spreading too much.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

About 15 minutes before taking the dough out of the fridge, preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

Step 7: Shape and Roll

Using a small 2-tablespoon cookie scoop, scoop out the dough and roll each piece into a ball. Roll each ball in vanilla sugar for a delightful outer coating.

Step 8: Bake

Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake for 10-11 minutes until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Enjoy them warm with tea, coffee, or a glass of milk!

Storage Tips

  • Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Refrigerator: Can be stored in the fridge for up to 10 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze the dough balls before baking for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

  • Swap the Honey: If you don’t have honey, try maple syrup or agave nectar.
  • Add Nuts: Mix in 1/4 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
  • Make it Spicier: Increase the cinnamon and ginger for a more intense flavor.
  • Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

Pairing Suggestions

These cookies pair beautifully with:

  • Hot Beverages: Tea, coffee, chai latte, or warm spiced milk.
  • Ice Cream: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
  • Fruit: A side of fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.

FAQ

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Can I skip the chilling step?

Chilling is recommended to help the cookies hold their shape. If you’re short on time, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes.

How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?

Ensure the dough is properly chilled, and avoid overmixing the ingredients.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free butter or coconut oil as a substitute.

Final Thoughts

These Soft and Chewy Honey Cookies are a delightful treat that will quickly become a household favorite. They’re simple to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion.

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