📖 Instructions

1. First, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Make sure everything's evenly distributed – no one wants a pocket of pure cinnamon!
2. In a separate, slightly larger bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. Don't rush it; this step is important for a good texture.
3. Beat in the egg and molasses until well combined. The mixture might look a little curdled at this point, but don't worry, it'll all come together.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your gingerbread men might end up tough. It should form a smooth, slightly sticky dough.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for a minute or two until it comes together into a cohesive ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time is crucial for preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven. I know, waiting is the hardest part!
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Parchment paper is you're friend in this endeavor. Trust me.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use your favorite gingerbread man cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Re-roll scraps as needed. Have fun with it! Make some gingerbread cats, or stars, or even tiny gingerbread dinosaurs! Why not, right?
8. Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between them. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the cookies are lightly browned. Keep a close eye on them; they can burn quickly.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents them from breaking. I speak from experience...
10. While the cookies are cooling, prepare the icing. In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more milk, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If you want colored icing, divide the icing into separate bowls and add food coloring. I love using gel food coloring for vibrant colors.
11. Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate them with icing and sprinkles. Use piping bags or small squeeze bottles for more precise decorating. Let your creativity run wild! And remember, there's no such thing as too many sprinkles. Or is there...? Nah.
12. Let the icing set completely before serving or storing the cookies. Enjoy your Molasses Midnight Gingerbread Men! They're perfect with a cup of hot cocoa on a cold winter night. Or, you know, anytime.