Name: Pillow Soft Gingerdoodle Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ¾ cups whole wheat white flour*; 3/4 teaspoon cream of tartar; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed; 1/4 cup granulated white sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup coconut oil**, softened; 1/4 cup molasses; 1 large egg, room temperature***; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3 tablespoons granulated white sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger, or substitute cinnamon; 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, white chocolate, or candied ginger (optional); *You can substitute half whole wheat flour, half all-purpose flour if whole wheat white is unavailable. Whole wheat pastry flour also works 1:1.; **Replace coconut oil with all butter if preferred. To soften coconut oil, place jar in bowl of hot water.; ***Use a room temperature egg to prevent coconut oil from solidifying; warm under tap water or in a bowl of warm water for 5 minutes.

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 6 reviews

If you’re craving something that perfectly blends the warm spices of ginger with the delightful softness of a snickerdoodle, look no further than this Pillow Soft Gingerdoodle Cookies Recipe. These cookies are like a cozy hug on a chilly day, with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth and just the right hint of molasses and spice to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking for a fun, comforting treat, this recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to become a fast favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl on the left holds a dry mix of light brown flour with darker cinnamon and brown spices layered on top, with a metal whisk resting inside. Next to the bowl is a white tea towel with black stripes. On the white marbled surface, several small white bowls and metal measuring spoons hold other baking ingredients: to the upper right, a white bowl with white granulated sugar; below it, a small white bowl with dark liquid, likely vanilla; next to that, a metal measuring cup filled with light brown sugar; below, a brown egg is placed directly on the surface; to the bottom right, a white bowl contains a block of pale yellow butter; and to the bottom left, a metal measuring spoon holds white solid shortening. The arrangement is neat and bright, ready for baking preparation. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

For this Pillow Soft Gingerdoodle Cookies Recipe, the ingredients are straightforward but essential. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and that inviting golden-brown color that makes these cookies irresistible.

Whole wheat white flour (1 ¾ cups): Provides a wholesome base with a slight nutty flavor and a tender crumb.
Cream of tartar (3/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle tang and helps keep the cookies soft and fluffy.
Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Gives cookies a gentle lift and helps spread evenly.
Fine sea salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances the spices.
Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Brings warmth and depth to the spice profile.
Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Pairs beautifully with cinnamon for added complexity.
Ground ginger (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a bright, zesty kick that’s signature to these gingerdoodles.
Ground cloves (1/8 teaspoon): A hint of pungency to round out the flavors.
Light brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Contributes moisture and rich caramel undertones.
Granulated white sugar (1/4 cup): Balances sweetness and creates a crisp-sugary coating.
Unsalted butter (1/4 cup, softened): Adds creaminess and helps achieve that soft texture.
Coconut oil (1/4 cup, softened): Offers a subtle tropical note and keeps cookies tender.
Molasses (1/4 cup): The star ingredient that lends the classic gingery, deep flavor and beautiful color.
Large egg (1, room temperature): Binds everything together and brings richness.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances the overall flavor with sweet floral notes.
Granulated sugar (3 tablespoons): For rolling, mixed with ginger; adds a delightful sparkle and extra zing.
Ground ginger (1/2 teaspoon) or cinnamon for coating: Perfect for that final spicy touch on the cookie exterior.

How to Make Pillow Soft Gingerdoodle Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Preparing Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350ºF and lining two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This step ensures your cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking, making cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the whole wheat white flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. This aromatic blend of spices and leavening agents is the foundation that gives these cookies their signature flavor and softness.

Step 3: Creaming Sugars and Fats

Next, grab a large bowl and using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment or a hand mixer, cream the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, softened coconut oil, and unsalted butter until fluffy. Patience here is key because coconut oil can take a little longer to fully blend but the creamy texture you achieve is worth it.

Step 4: Adding Molasses, Egg, and Vanilla

With the mixer still running on low-medium speed, add in the molasses, room temperature egg, and vanilla extract. These bring moisture, richness, and deepen the flavor, ensuring your Pillow Soft Gingerdoodle Cookies Recipe has that perfect balance between sweet and spicy.

Step 5: Combining Flour Mixture Into Wet Ingredients

Slowly add the flour and spice mixture into your creamy wet ingredients, about half a cup at a time. Mix gently on low speed until the dough just comes together. The dough should be soft but not sticky — if it feels tacky, sprinkle in a tablespoon or two of flour to get just the right consistency for easy rolling.

Step 6: Preparing the Sugar Coating and Forming Cookies

In a small bowl, mix the granulated sugar with ground ginger for the coating. Then scoop about 1/2 tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms into smooth balls—close to 1 tablespoon each in size. Roll each dough ball in the ginger-sugar mixture to give that sparkling, flavorful crust.

Step 7: Baking to Perfection

Place your coated dough balls evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. When finished, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a minute or two so they set properly before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. The results? Delightfully soft, tender cookies with a subtle, spicy crunch on the outside.

How to Serve Pillow Soft Gingerdoodle Cookies Recipe

The image shows a group of round cookies with a golden brown color and a slightly cracked surface placed on a metal cooling rack. The cookies look soft and have a textured top with tiny sugar granules visible. The rack is set on a white marbled surface next to a white cloth with black stripes. The setting is simple and bright, focusing on the warm color and rough texture of the cookies photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For an extra touch of sweetness and presentation, sprinkle a little extra powdered sugar or a light dusting of cinnamon over the cooled cookies. You can even dip half the cookie in melted white chocolate for a beautiful, indulgent finish.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm cup of chai tea or a frothy mug of hot apple cider. Their spicy, soft texture complements creamy beverages and brings out the cozy flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress at a holiday party or casual get-together? Serve these Pillow Soft Gingerdoodle Cookies Recipe treats stacked on vintage plates with fresh cranberries and sprigs of rosemary for a festive vibe. Alternatively, package them in a clear jar with a colorful ribbon as a heartfelt gift.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Pillow Soft Gingerdoodle Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and fresh for up to one week, making them a perfect make-ahead treat for busy days.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cookies longer, freeze the dough balls or baked cookies in freezer-safe bags. Dough can be frozen for up to a month—just thaw before baking. Baked cookies freeze well too and can be thawed at room temperature for a quick snack.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked softness, warm your cookies in a 300ºF oven for 3-5 minutes or pop one in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This revives their tender texture and enhances the comforting spice aroma.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour instead of whole wheat white flour?

Yes, you can substitute half the whole wheat white flour with all-purpose flour if that’s what you have on hand. This will give you a slightly lighter texture but still keep the essence of the Pillow Soft Gingerdoodle Cookies Recipe intact.

What if I don’t have coconut oil? Can I use all butter?

Absolutely! Using all unsalted butter will work just fine and give your cookies a rich buttery flavor. Just make sure the butter is softened to cream easily with the sugars.

Why is a room temperature egg important in this recipe?

A room temperature egg helps to prevent the coconut oil from solidifying, which ensures smooth mixing and a consistent dough texture for perfectly soft cookies.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Definitely! Adding mini chocolate chips, white chocolate chunks, or candied ginger is a wonderful way to personalize your Pillow Soft Gingerdoodle Cookies Recipe. Just fold in about 1/2 cup of your favorite mix-in after combining the dry and wet ingredients.

Do these cookies keep their softness after cooling?

Yes! These cookies are designed to be soft and tender even after they cool completely. Storing them properly in an airtight container ensures they maintain that pillow-like texture for days.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about whipping up a batch of these Pillow Soft Gingerdoodle Cookies Recipe and sharing them with family and friends. Their delicate blend of spices, soft texture, and subtle sweetness make them a perfect treat for any occasion, especially when you want to feel cozy and cared for. I encourage you to try making these cookies soon—you’ll be adding a new favorite to your baking repertoire in no time!