Molasses Cookies II are a timeless classic, beloved for their soft, chewy texture and rich flavor. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for baking with kids, making it a delightful family activity. Whether for holidays or an everyday treat, these cookies are sure to become a household favorite.
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The Best Molasses Cookies Recipe
These molasses cookies are known for their perfect blend of spices and soft texture. The combination of molasses and brown sugar creates a deep, rich flavor that is irresistible. Simple and straightforward, this recipe ensures delicious cookies every time.
Notes on Ingredients
- Shortening: Provides a tender, moist texture to the cookies.
- Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and a slight caramel flavor.
- Egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture.
- Light Molasses: Gives the cookies their distinctive rich, sweet, and slightly tangy flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Forms the base of the dough, giving structure to the cookies.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
- Baking Soda: Helps the cookies rise and become light and airy.
- Ground Cloves, Cinnamon, and Ginger: These spices add warmth and depth to the flavor, making the cookies taste like a cozy holiday treat.
How to Make Molasses Cookies
- Prepare the Dough:
- Cream together ¾ cup shortening and 1 cup packed brown sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
- Stir in 1 egg and ½ cup light molasses until well combined.
- Fold in 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, 2 teaspoons baking soda, ½ teaspoon ground cloves, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon ground ginger until fully incorporated.
- Chill the Dough:
- Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator until firm, about 1 to 2 hours.
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Form the Cookies:
- Roll the dough into small balls using a small melon baller or your hands.
- Roll each ball in white sugar and place on lightly greased cookie sheets.
- Bake:
- Bake the cookies for 9 to 10 minutes until they are set but still soft.
- Leave the cookies on the cookie sheet for one minute before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
How to Serve Molasses Cookies
Serve these soft and chewy molasses cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of tea or coffee. They make a wonderful snack, dessert, or addition to a holiday cookie platter. Their warm, spiced flavor is perfect for cozy gatherings and festive occasions.
How to Store Molasses Cookies
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for several days, maintaining their soft and chewy texture. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 213.42 kcal | 11% |
| Total Fat | 8.97 g | 13% |
| Carbs | 31.3 g | 12% |
| Sugars | 17.77 g | 20% |
| Protein | 2.13 g | 4% |
| Sodium | 228.66 mg | 11% |
| Fiber | 0.58 g | 2% |
| Saturated Fat | 3.55 g | 18% |
| Trans Fat | 0 g | – |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 3.9 g | – |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.06 g | – |
| Cholesterol | 13.88 mg | 5% |
| Calcium | 34.3 mg | 4% |
| Magnesium | 28.14 mg | 8% |
| Potassium | 175.84 mg | 5% |
| Iron | 1.41 mg | 10% |
| Zinc | 0.19 mg | 2% |
| Phosphorus | 27.22 mg | 4% |
| Vitamin A | 4.12 mcg | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 0.01 mg | 0% |
| Thiamin (Vitamin B1) | 0.14 mg | 13% |
| Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) | 0.1 mg | 7% |
| Niacin (Vitamin B3) | 1.14 mg | 7% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.08 mg | 6% |
| Folic Acid (Vitamin B9) | 51.74 mcg | 26% |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.02 mcg | 1% |
| Vitamin D | 0.05 mcg | 0% |
| Vitamin E | 0.13 mg | 1% |
| Vitamin K | 2.02 mcg | 3% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
FAQs About Molasses Cookies
Can I use butter instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute butter for shortening, but the texture of the cookies may be slightly different, often resulting in a less tender cookie.
Do I need to chill the dough?
Chilling the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to handle and roll into balls. It also helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Can I add other spices?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice can enhance the flavor.
How do I prevent the cookies from overbaking?
Keep a close eye on the cookies as they bake. They should be set but still soft when you remove them from the oven. Overbaking can make them hard and dry.
The Best Molasses Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
- ¾ cup shortening
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 egg
- ½ cup light molasses
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions
- Cream together shortening and brown sugar. Stir in egg and molasses and mix well. Fold in dry ingredients and stir. Cover and chill until firm (1 – 2 hours).
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Roll dough into small balls (I use a small melon baller to help with this) and roll in white sugar. Place on lightly greased cookie sheets.
- Bake 9 – 10 minutes. Leave on cookie sheet one minute until set.
Enjoy baking and savoring these delightful Molasses Cookies. Their rich flavor and soft texture make them a perfect treat for any occasion!