Best Crackle Top Molasses Cookies Recipe

The Best Crackle Top Molasses Cookies

When it comes to molasses cookies, this recipe stands out. The combination of simple ingredients creates a cookie that’s rich in flavor and has the perfect texture. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few steps and a short bake time.

Notes on Ingredients

Vegetable Oil: Provides moisture and keeps the cookies soft.
White Sugar: Used for sweetness and rolling the dough balls to create the crackled top.
Egg: Binds the ingredients together.
Molasses: Adds a rich, deep flavor and dark color to the cookies.
All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the dough.
Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and create the crackled appearance.
Spices (Cinnamon, Ginger, Cloves): Give the cookies their distinctive warm and spicy flavor.

How to Make Crackle Top Molasses Cookies

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C) to get it ready for baking.
Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the vegetable oil and 1 cup of sugar. Add the egg and beat well. Stir in the molasses.
Combine the dry ingredients: Gradually add in the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Mix until a firm dough forms. If needed, add a bit more flour to achieve the right consistency.
Shape the cookies: Form the dough into 1 1/4-inch balls. Roll each ball in the remaining 1/3 cup of sugar.
Bake: Place the dough balls on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them about 3 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the tops crack.
Cool: Remove the cookies from the baking sheet and let them cool on a wire rack.

How to Serve Crackle Top Molasses Cookies

These cookies are perfect on their own with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a lovely addition to a holiday cookie platter or as a gift in a festive tin. Serve them at room temperature to enjoy their full flavor and texture.

How to Store Crackle Top Molasses Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a sealed container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

FAQs about Crackle Top Molasses Cookies

Can I use butter instead of vegetable oil?

Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of melted butter for the vegetable oil, but it will slightly change the texture and flavor of the cookies.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

Why didn’t my cookies crack on top?

Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking and that you roll the dough balls in sugar. Both steps help create the signature crackled tops.

Can I add other spices?

Feel free to experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or allspice for a different flavor profile.