CHRISTMAS GINGERBREAD COOKIE BITES

Christmas Gingerbread Cookie Bites made with dark brown sugar, molasses, and warm spices for that cozy gingerbread flavor everyone loves. Finished with festive sprinkles, they’re rich, chewy, perfectly spiced, and irresistibly easy to make!

This poppable twist on classic gingerbread cookies is always a family favorite. They’re incredibly easy to make—even kids can help—and with about 100 bite-sized pieces per batch, they’re perfect for cookie exchanges, parties, or holiday snacking. Make these holiday gingerbread cookie squares and see how fast they become a new tradition in your home!

Why you’ll love Mini Gingerbread Cookies

• Easy Prep: One pan, slice-and-bake method keeps prep quick and mess minimal.
• Perfectly Bite-Sized: Classic gingerbread flavor in poppable one-bite squares.
• Great for Sharing: Makes a large batch that’s ideal for gifting, parties, and holiday baking marathons.

Gingerbread Cookie Ingredients

Flour: You’ll need 3 cups all-purpose flour for the base of the cookie dough.

Leavening agents: Use baking powder and baking soda to help the cookies puff up as they bake. 

Salt: A pinch of salt will help enhance the flavors in the cookies.

Spices: 1 TBSP ground ginger, 2 tsp cinnamon, and ½ tsp ground cloves create well-spiced cookies.

Shortening & butter: Using both shortening and butter gives the cookies more fat for a richer taste & texture.

Brown sugar: Using dark brown sugar will give the cookies a nice depth of flavor.

Egg: 1 large egg binds the dough together well.

Molasses: You need ½ cup of molasses to create the traditional gingerbread flavor.

Extract: Adding vanilla extract will enhance all the wonderful flavors in this cookie dough.

Sprinkles: Use ¼ cup holiday-colored nonpareil sprinkles for a festive touch to every cookie bite.

Tips for making Chewy Gingerbread Cookies

Full instructions in the recipe card below, here are a few tips for a successful baking process!

1. Pack the pan firmly: Really press the dough tightly into the 9×13 pan so there are no air pockets—this ensures clean slices and evenly baked cookie bites instead of crumbly edges.
2. Chill for structure, not just timing: The full chill time is key for keeping the dough compact when slicing; under-chilled dough will stick to the knife and lose its square shape.
3. Watch the finish, not the clock: These bake fast; pull them when the tops look set but still soft so they stay chewy after cooling rather than dry or crunchy.

How long do gingerbread cookies last?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will keep for up to a week. For the best flavor and texture, enjoy them within about 3 days, when they’re at their freshest. They’re especially delicious slightly warm, so don’t miss grabbing a few soon after they cool.

Can gingerbread cookies be frozen?

Yes, these cookies freeze beautifully in an airtight container for up to 3 months, making them perfect for advance party prep or extending gingerbread season a little longer. Just let them thaw on the counter for a few minutes before enjoying.

Do I have to chill the dough before baking?

Yes—chilling is essential for clean slicing and helps the cookies keep their bite-sized shape while baking.

Can I use butter instead of shortening?

You can, but the combination of butter and shortening gives the best texture. Using all butter will still work, but the cookies may spread slightly more.

Can I change or skip the sprinkles?

Absolutely. You can leave them off or swap in sanding sugar, mini chocolate chips, or crushed candy canes for a different festive touch.

Check out these other great Christmas cookie recipes!

• These Soft Gingerbread Sandwich Cookies combine classic holiday flavors like molasses and cinnamon with a rich, creamy vanilla cream cheese filling. Perfectly festive and irresistibly delicious, they’re a must-bake for the holidays!
• Holiday Snickerdoodles are soft, chewy cookies rolled in a warm cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg sugar blend. With a festive gingerbread twist, they’re a great treat for Christmas baking!
• Our recipe for Christmas Sugar Cookie Bars create thick, soft, and irresistibly delicious treats. Truly the best sugar cookie bars you’ll ever try!
• Spiced Christmas Shortbread Cookies combine simple pantry staples and warm holiday spices for rich, cozy flavor in every bite. They’re an easy and festive addition to any Christmas cookie tray.
• These Christmas Sprinkle Cookies are rolled in colorful holiday sprinkles, making them festive, fun, and perfect for holiday celebrations!
• Enjoy Peppermint Bark Graham Crackers made with just 4 simple ingredients! Sweet, minty, and festive, they’re the perfect addition to any holiday dessert tray!

These Christmas gingerbread cookie bites are soft, chewy, and irresistibly festive. Bake a batch and watch them quickly become a beloved holiday tradition in your home.