Molasses Cookies Recipe

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, chewy molasses cookie with crackly tops and cozy spices. Molasses cookies are perfect for the holidays or any time you crave a comforting treat.

You’ll love how easy and versatile these cookies are to make. With simple ingredients like butter, molasses, and cinnamon, you can create a delicious batch in no time. Plus, they fill your kitchen with a delightful aroma that’s hard to resist.

Stay tuned, because we’ll show you the step-by-step process to bake these tasty treats. So, get ready to enjoy some of the best cookies you’ve ever tasted!

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

Flour: Use 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour. If you prefer, whole wheat flour can be a substitute, though it may change the texture slightly.

Baking Soda: You’ll need 1 teaspoon. No substitutes are recommended, as it helps the cookies rise perfectly.

Spices: Essential spices include:

• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Salt: Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt. If you use salted butter, you might reduce this just a bit.

Butter or Shortening: 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) of unsalted butter or shortening. Margarine can also work but might alter the flavor slightly.

Brown Sugar: Use 1 cup, packed. This ingredient is key for the chewiness. You can replace it with dark brown sugar for a richer flavor.

Molasses: You’ll need 1/4 cup. Light molasses is common, but dark molasses can give a deeper flavor. Avoid blackstrap molasses as it’s very bitter.

Egg: One large egg. If you are vegan, you can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water).

Optional Toppings:

• Cinnamon Sugar: A sprinkle on top adds a nice touch. Mix 2 tablespoons granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon cinnamon.

These ingredients ensure your molasses cookies are soft and chewy, with a deliciously spiced flavor.

Instructions

1. 
   

   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

   
   

2. In a medium bowl, combine:

   • 2 cups flour
   • 2 teaspoons baking soda
   • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
   • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
   • 1/2 teaspoon salt
   • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
   • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

3. In a large bowl, beat together using an electric mixer:

   • 1/2 cup butter (softened)
   • 1 cup brown sugar
   • 1/4 cup molasses
   • 1 egg
4. 
   

   Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until everything is combined.

   
   
5. 
   

   Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 1 hour.

   
   
6. 
   

   Roll the dough into 1-inch diameter balls. You can use a tablespoon to help measure the dough.

   
   
7. 
   

   Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.

   
   
8. 
   

   Place the dough balls on the baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

   
   
9. 
   

   Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are set and cracks form on top.

   
   
10. 
    

    Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

    
    

Enjoy your delicious molasses cookies!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Tips & Tricks

• Use softened butter: Softened butter mixes better with sugar, giving you a smooth dough.
• Chill the dough: Refrigerate the dough for at least 2 hours. This helps the cookies hold their shape while baking.
• Even sizing: Use a cookie scoop to make sure all cookies are the same size. This ensures even baking.
• Spice it up: Adjust the amount of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves according to your taste.

Storing

Room Temperature:

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They stay fresh for up to one week.

Refrigerator:

• For longer freshness, store in the refrigerator.
• They can last up to two weeks.

Freezing:

• Freeze baked cookies in a single layer first, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• They can be stored for up to three months.

Freezing Dough:

• Form dough into balls, place on a tray to freeze, then store in a bag.
• Bake directly from frozen for fresh cookies anytime!

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

Molasses cookies are fantastic on their own, but you can also tweak them to add your personal touch. Here are some fun variations and serving ideas:

Recipe Variations

• Spice it up: Add extra spices like nutmeg or allspice for a bolder flavor.
• Add-ins: Mix in some raisins, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts into the cookie dough.
• Glaze: Drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk.
• Sandwich cookies: Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting between two molasses cookies.

Serving Suggestions

• With milk: A classic choice, perfect for dunking.
• Ice cream sandwich: Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies.
• Holiday treats: Decorate with icing and sprinkles for festive occasions.
• Coffee or tea: Pair with your favorite hot beverage for a delightful treat.

Storing and Freezing

• Storing: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer freshness, store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. Enjoy as needed.