Gluten Free Ginger Molasses Cookies

 Yields: About 24 cookies

Prep time: 20 minutes

Cook time: 8-10 minutes

Ingredients:

 * 1 3/4 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour blend (such as Bob's Red Mill 1-to-1 Baking Flour)

 * 1 teaspoon baking soda

 * 1/4 teaspoon salt

 * 1 teaspoon ground ginger

 * 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

 * 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

 * 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

 * 1 cup granulated sugar

 * 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

 * 1/4 cup molasses

 * 1 large egg

 * 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

 * Preheat oven: To 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

 * Whisk dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.

 * Cream butter and sugars: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).

 * Add wet ingredients: Beat in the egg, then stir in the molasses and vanilla extract.

 * Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

 * Chill dough (optional): For easier handling, cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

 * Shape cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them.

 * Bake: Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.

 * Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips & Variations:

 * Softened Butter: Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for best results.

 * Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Use a high-quality gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum as a binder.

 * Spices: Adjust the amount of spices to your liking.

 * Glaze: For an extra touch, drizzle the cooled cookies with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a little milk or water.

Enjoy! These soft and chewy gluten-free ginger molasses cookies are perfect for the holiday season.