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; 1 tablespoon ground ginger; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 1/2 cup molasses; 1 cup dark chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons coconut oil

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipe Collection

Delight in the warm spices of gingerbread hearts, beautifully coated with a rich dark chocolate glaze. Perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet treat any time of the year.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T23:31:51.272Z

These Gingerbread Hearts are not just a treat; they are a labor of love, bringing warmth and nostalgia to your kitchen. The combination of spices and the dark chocolate glaze creates a perfect balance of flavors that will impress family and friends alike.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Warm, spiced flavor that evokes holiday cheer
Rich dark chocolate glaze adds a decadent finish
Perfect for gifting or sharing with loved ones

      

The History of Gingerbread

Gingerbread has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Originally, it was made by grinding ginger and mixing it with honey and breadcrumbs. The modern version we enjoy today began to take shape in the Middle Ages when spices became more accessible in Europe. Bakers began to experiment with adding various ingredients, resulting in the soft, spiced cookies we now associate with the holidays.

The tradition of baking gingerbread cookies has evolved into delightful shapes and decorations, often featuring intricate designs. In many cultures, gingerbread is synonymous with festive celebrations, especially around Christmas. The heart shape of these cookies adds a personal touch, making them perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Why Dark Chocolate?

Dark chocolate is not only delicious but also offers health benefits when consumed in moderation. It is rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. The addition of dark chocolate glaze to these gingerbread hearts elevates the flavor profile, providing a rich contrast to the spiced cookie base.

Moreover, dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the warm spices of gingerbread, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and spicy. This combination makes these cookies a delightful treat that will please any palate, whether you’re indulging yourself or sharing with friends.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Gingerbread hearts with dark chocolate glaze are not just for the holiday season; they are versatile enough to be enjoyed year-round. Their charming appearance and delightful taste make them an ideal treat for any occasion, from birthdays to anniversaries.

These cookies also make wonderful gifts. Whether packaged in a decorative box or presented on a festive platter, they show thoughtfulness and care. Sharing these treats with friends and family can create lasting memories, making them a cherished recipe in your collection.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Gingerbread Hearts with Dark Chocolate Glaze.

For the Gingerbread Hearts

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

For the Dark Chocolate Glaze

1 cup dark chocolate chips
2 tablespoons coconut oil

Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Gingerbread Hearts with Dark Chocolate Glaze.

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. In another bowl, beat together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and molasses, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.

Chill the Dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Roll and Cut the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges are firm. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack.

Prepare the Chocolate Glaze

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

Glaze the Cookies

Dip the cooled gingerbread hearts into the chocolate glaze, allowing excess to drip off. Place on wax paper to set.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the glaze has set, your Gingerbread Hearts are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them at your next gathering or gift them to friends.

Enjoy your beautifully decorated Gingerbread Hearts!

Storage Tips

To keep your gingerbread hearts fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Properly stored, they can last for up to a week. If you plan to enjoy them later, consider freezing them without the glaze. Simply place the cooled cookies in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, remove them from the freezer and allow them to thaw at room temperature. Once thawed, dip them in the chocolate glaze for a freshly coated treat that tastes just made!

Customization Ideas

Feel free to get creative with your gingerbread hearts! Consider adding nuts or dried fruits to the dough for added texture and flavor. Chopped walnuts or cranberries can provide a delightful surprise in each bite, enhancing the overall experience.

You can also experiment with different glazes. While the dark chocolate glaze is rich and decadent, a white chocolate glaze or a simple icing can create a lighter alternative. Adding festive sprinkles or edible glitter can make your gingerbread hearts even more visually appealing, perfect for festive occasions.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different spices in the gingerbread?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the spices to your preference, such as adding nutmeg or allspice.

→ How should I store the cookies?

Store the gingerbread hearts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before rolling out.

→ What can I use instead of molasses?

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