5 Generation Gingerbread Recipe

Soft gingerbread recipe

Originally published on November 19, 2023, Updated December 23, 2025.

As the festive season approaches, there's a sweet tradition that has been a constant in my family for generations, baking and sharing our cherished soft gingerbread cookies. Beyond their delicious taste, these cookies hold a special place in our hearts as they bring us together, spark creativity, and connect us with the warmth of holiday memories.

For me, the heart of our holiday season lies in the kitchen, where generations before me have mixed, rolled, and baked batches of our family's secret gingerbread cookie recipe. This tradition isn't just about the cookies; it's about passing down a piece of our family's history and creating a connection that transcends time. My grandma's recipe was lost for a long time and I only recently was able to find it, only after years of trying to create it. I love making this recipe as it connects my grandma to my children during the holidays. She may not be here any longer, but now her recipe is and that can continue to be shared over and over.

I love how baking and eating Christmas treats brings my family together from the youngest to the oldest. The kitchen becomes a hub of laughter and shared stories, creating memories that last far beyond the holiday season. As the familiar scent of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses fills the air, it's like a time machine that transports me to Christmases past, reminding me of all the memories I shared with my grandma.

Baking as a Bridge Between Generations

Invite children to share a memory, story, or feeling while baking. Ask questions such as: “Who does this recipe remind you of?” or “How does this smell make you feel?” These simple reflections build emotional connection, empathy, and a sense of belonging, helping children understand that food can carry love, history, and memories across generations.

I would like to share this family recipe here with you to get into the kitchen and try it yourself. My hope is that you enjoy our gingerbread cookie this season as much as we do!

Visit the Winterberry Cabin and download the recipe for free!

The Perfect Gingerbread Scoop

Use a tablespoon or small scoop to portion the dough evenly, then gently roll into balls and coat in sugar before baking.

This builds consistency, confidence, and fine motor skills, and helps cookies bake evenly, perfect for little hands helping in the kitchen.

Christmas Cookie Challenge

In December we did a mystery challenge where Little Chewzers needed to guess what my grandma made each day in the kitchen over the holidays. She is Great-Grandma Trout to my kids, so this video describes her beloved soft gingerbread cookie recipe.

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Our Winner was Monique Forest, who won a $50 Amazon gift card and a signed copy of Little Chewz Celebrates Winter. There were also other fun gift card prizes for runner-ups and honorable mentions! Check out our social media for more contests, tips and tricks!

Have a wonderful holiday!

Lisa (Mom Soup Spoon)