Something Sweet for December: A Gingerbread Cookie Recipe

Every Christmas, no matter how busy the season gets, I try to carve out one afternoon for baking. Messy kitchen, sticky hands with my two boys, and delicious treats to eat or share with friends who stop by during the festive season. Nothing helps me settle into Christmas quite like this.

With our December Candle Club boxes making their way to homes now, I thought I'd share my go-to gingerbread cookie recipe. These soft, gently spiced cookies are sturdy enough for decorating... or equally good eaten warm straight off the tray (highly recommend).

If you've got a free afternoon coming up, this is a lovely one to bookmark for the lead-up to Christmas — whether you're baking with kids, friends, or just for yourself.

Top tip: finish with a delicious drink and The Holiday for good measure.

Gingerbread Cookie Recipe

Soft, spiced, and perfect for decorating!

Ingredients

• 2 cups plain flour

• 1 cup sugar (brown sugar works beautifully)

• 1 tablespoon ground ginger

• ½ tsp baking soda

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 150g butter, cubed

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 tablespoon maple syrup(You can also make your own by gently boiling sugar and water)

Method

1. In a bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, ginger and cinnamon.

2. In a separate bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Beat in the maple syrup and egg.

4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.

5. Wrap the dough in cling film and chill for 30–60 minutes (or overnight if you’re planning ahead).

6. Roll out on a lightly floured surface to about 5mm thick.

Pro tip: Pop your cookie cutter in the fridge for 10 minutes before cutting — it gives you cleaner, sharper edges.

7. Bake at 175°C for 8–10 minutes, until the edges are just set.

8. Cool completely before decorating.

Simple White Frosting (Perfect for Decorating)

Ingredients

• 2 cups icing sugar

• 2–3 tbsp milk

• ½ tsp vanilla extract (or a dash of maple syrup)

Whisk together until smooth.

• For piping: keep it thick.

• For flooding or spreading: thin it slightly with extra milk, a few drops at a time.

I hope this recipe finds its way into your December in some small, cosy way — maybe alongside a lit candle, a favourite playlist, and a moment of calm in an otherwise busy season.

And to our Candle Club members: thank you, always, for welcoming these little seasonal rituals into your homes. It means more than you know 🤍.

Unboxing January's Candle Club: A Journey to Secret Beach

Imagine discovering a hidden beach - warm sand between your toes, the fresh zing of bergamot carried on the breeze, and weathered teakwood creating the perfect resting spot. This month's Candle Club box brings that secluded summer paradise right to your doorstep.

Our January "Secret Beach" candle combines:

• Sun-warmed sand notes

• Bright, uplifting bergamot

• Rich aged teakwood

• Creamy coconut undertones

But a perfect summer day needs more than just ambiance. We've partnered with local New Zealand brands to create a complete sensory experience:

Featured Collaborations:

• Babu Basics everyday sunscreen: Protect your skin while adventuring. Perfect size to toss in your beach bag

• Boho glass anklet: Add a touch of coastal style to your summer wardrobe

The complete box invites you to create mindful moments of summer serenity at home. Whether it's a quiet morning with coffee and candlelight, or an evening unwinding with the scent of secret beaches filling your space.

Photography by Nectar Photography