There’s something comforting about the smell of gingerbread baking in the oven at Christmas. It’s a simple way to bring warmth into the home, create memories with family, friends, or support workers, and enjoy a festive treat together. 

This traditional Christmas gingerbread recipe is easy to make and perfect for sharing – whether you’re hosting visitors, planning a Christmas activity, or preparing a homemade gift.

Traditional Christmas Gingerbread

Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Makes: Approximately 40 pieces

Ingredients

  • 150g unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1/2 cup (125ml) golden syrup
  • 1/2 cup (110g) firmly packed brown sugar
  • 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
  • 3 cups (450g) plain flour
  • 1 tbsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp ground cloves
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 egg, lightly whisked
  • Choc chips, to decorate

Method

Step 1: Prepare your trays
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line two large baking trays with baking paper.

Step 2: Make the syrup mixture
Place butter, golden syrup and brown sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir for 3 minutes or until the sugar dissolves. Bring to the boil, remove from heat, add bicarbonate of soda, and stir to combine. Transfer mixture to a large heatproof bowl and allow to cool slightly.

Step 3: Add dry ingredients and form the dough
Sift flour, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and baking powder over the butter mixture. Add the egg and stir until combined. Turn onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead until smooth. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic and refrigerate for about 45 minutes.

Step 4: Roll and cut your shapes
Roll one dough portion between two sheets of baking paper until 5mm thick. Use Christmas-themed cutters to cut shapes, re-rolling scraps as needed. Place shapes on trays, leaving space for spreading. Repeat with remaining dough.

Step 5: Bake and cool
Bake one tray at a time for 8 minutes or until just firm. Cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Decorate
Once cooled, decorate with choc chips, icing, or sprinkles.

Tips for Festive Gingerbread

  • Roll thinner for crispier biscuits.
  • Roll slightly thicker for a softer texture.
  • Store in an airtight container to keep fresh.
  • Use as a simple homemade Christmas gift.

Source: https://www.taste.com.au/pages/taste-best-christmas-recipes

Need a Hand at Home This Christmas?

Christmas can be joyful, but it can also feel busy or overwhelming—especially if you’re managing daily living needs or supporting someone who is. 

Just Better Care is here to help you stay comfortable, supported and connected throughout the festive season.

We can assist with:

Our local teams work with you to plan the support you need to enjoy the holidays in the way that suits you best.

To organise Christmas support services, contact your local Just Better Care office today.