Gingerbread Hearts with Dark Chocolate Glaze

Name: Gingerbread Hearts with Dark Chocolate Glaze
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 24 hearts
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 2 teaspoons ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed; 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses; 1 large egg; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons coconut oil

Highlighted under: Sweet Indulgence Recipes

Delightful and spicy gingerbread hearts topped with a rich dark chocolate glaze, perfect for gifting or enjoying during the holidays.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-04T21:33:52.006Z

This Gingerbread Hearts recipe is a cherished tradition in many households. The warm spices and sweet aroma fill the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for any occasion. The addition of dark chocolate glaze elevates these cookies, making them a delightful treat to share with loved ones.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Warm spices that fill your home with festive aromas
Rich dark chocolate glaze that adds a decadent touch
Perfect for holiday gifting or cozying up with a cup of tea

      

The Magic of Gingerbread

Gingerbread cookies have long been a holiday tradition, filling homes with their delightful aroma. The combination of warm spices—ginger, cinnamon, and cloves—creates a comforting fragrance that evokes memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations. These Gingerbread Hearts bring a unique twist to the traditional recipe, making them not just a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the senses.

The versatility of gingerbread allows for creativity in both flavor and presentation. With their heart shape, these cookies symbolize love and affection, making them an ideal gift for friends and family during the holiday season. Whether you choose to package them beautifully or serve them at a cozy gathering, they convey warmth and thoughtfulness.

Dark Chocolate Delight

The rich dark chocolate glaze adds an indulgent layer to these gingerbread hearts, elevating them from a simple cookie to a gourmet treat. Dark chocolate is not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants, making it a more health-conscious choice compared to regular chocolate. When paired with the spicy gingerbread, it creates a delightful contrast that will please any palate.

To achieve the perfect glaze, melting the chocolate with a touch of coconut oil ensures a smooth, glossy finish. This combination not only enhances the flavor but also helps the chocolate set beautifully. Dipping the cookies in the glaze creates a stunning visual appeal, making them perfect for holiday displays or as part of a festive dessert table.

Tips for Perfect Gingerbread Hearts

To achieve the best results with your gingerbread hearts, make sure to measure your ingredients accurately. Spoon and level the flour instead of scooping directly from the bag to avoid adding too much. Additionally, chilling the dough is a crucial step; it helps the cookies maintain their shape when baking and makes them easier to handle.

If you want to add a personal touch, consider decorating your gingerbread hearts with colored icing or edible glitter after glazing them. This not only enhances their appearance but also allows for creativity and customization. Feel free to experiment with different shapes or sizes to make your gingerbread cookies uniquely yours.

Ingredients

For the Gingerbread Hearts

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

For the Dark Chocolate Glaze

1 cup dark chocolate chips
2 tablespoons coconut oil

Mix all ingredients well and prepare for baking!

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

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

Chill and Roll

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface 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 the gingerbread hearts for 10-15 minutes, or until they are firm but not overbaked. Allow them to cool on a wire rack.

Make the Chocolate Glaze

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

Glaze the Cookies

Once the cookies are completely cool, dip the tops into the chocolate glaze and let them set on a wire rack.

Enjoy your delicious gingerbread hearts!

Storing Your Gingerbread Hearts

Once your gingerbread hearts are complete, storing them properly is essential to maintain their freshness. Place the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for about a week, but they are best enjoyed within the first few days when they're still soft and flavorful.

For longer storage, consider freezing the cookies before glazing them. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply thaw at room temperature and glaze as instructed for a freshly made treat.

Serving Suggestions

These gingerbread hearts are perfect for serving at holiday parties or as a cozy accompaniment to your afternoon tea. Pair them with a steaming cup of chai or hot cocoa to enhance the warm spices and chocolate flavors. You can also serve them alongside other holiday treats for a delightful dessert spread.

For a charming presentation, arrange the cookies on a decorative plate or platter, garnishing with fresh herbs like rosemary or sprigs of holly. This not only adds a festive touch but also makes your dessert table more inviting and visually appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly.

→ How should I store the gingerbread hearts?

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

→ Can I freeze the cookies?

Yes, you can freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are well-wrapped.

→ What can I use instead of molasses?

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