There’s nothing like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked molasses cookies wafting through your home. Imagine sinking your teeth into a soft, chewy cookie that bursts with rich flavors of dark brown sugar and a hint of spice, transporting you to a cozy kitchen on a chilly day. The sweetness mixed with just the right amount of molasses creates an irresistible treat that is sure to make anyone’s day a little brighter.
These delightful cookies aren’t just perfect for dessert; they make an excellent snack during the holidays or any time you’re in need of a pick-me-up. I can still hear my grandmother’s laughter as she whipped up her famous molasses cookies, filling our home with warmth and love. Each bite was not just about flavor; it was wrapped in memories that I cherish deeply. Get ready for an exciting baking adventure that will fill your heart and home with joy!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These molasses cookies are incredibly easy to prepare, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers
- Their rich flavor profile combines sweetness with a touch of spice, creating a satisfying treat
- The golden-brown cookies are visually appealing and can brighten any dessert table
- Enjoy them straight out of the oven or as part of festive holiday trays—versatile enough for every occasion!
Baking these delicious treats has brought smiles to my family’s faces more times than I can count, making every batch memorable.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious molasses cookies:
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All-Purpose Flour: Use unbleached flour for the best texture; it helps create that perfect chewiness.
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Baking Soda: This is essential for leavening and gives the cookies their lovely rise.
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Ground Ginger: Choose high-quality ginger for a warm, aromatic kick that complements the molasses beautifully.
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Cinnamon: Freshly ground cinnamon adds depth and warmth; it’s like a hug in cookie form!
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Molasses: Choose unsulfured molasses for its rich flavor; it’s what makes these cookies special.
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Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar enhances moisture and sweetness, contributing to the chewy texture you’ll love.
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Butter: Use unsalted butter at room temperature for easy mixing and added richness.
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Eggs: One large egg binds everything together while providing structure—don’t skip this crucial ingredient!
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Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness; trust me, it makes all the difference in flavor.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking so your cookies come out just right.
Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. This step helps distribute those spiced flavors throughout the dough.
Cream butter and sugars: In another bowl, beat softened butter with brown sugar until fluffy; this usually takes about 2-3 minutes. The air incorporation here is key for lightness.
Add wet ingredients: Mix in eggs one at a time along with molasses until smooth. It should become glossy and fragrant—trust me; you’ll want to taste it!
Combine mixtures: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture using a spatula until just combined. Resist over-mixing; we want those tender cookies!
Scoop onto baking sheets: Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop rounded balls onto greased baking sheets about 2 inches apart. They’ll spread nicely as they bake.
Bake to perfection: Place trays in preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are set but centers remain soft. Your kitchen will smell divine!
Cool down: Allow cookies to cool on sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to wire racks. This helps them firm up while keeping that delightful chewiness intact.
Enjoy: Finally, take a moment before diving in! Enjoy these warm treats with milk or coffee—they’re simply irresistible!
Now you’re ready to share these delightful morsels with friends, family, or keep them all for yourself (no judgment here!). Happy baking!
You Must Know
- Molasses cookies are chewy, rich, and bursting with flavor
- Their warm spices not only tantalize taste buds but also fill your kitchen with a heavenly aroma that brings back sweet memories
- Perfect for any occasion, they’re a cozy treat that never disappoints
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by creaming butter and sugar until fluffy, then gradually blend in molasses and eggs before adding dry ingredients. This ensures the perfect texture and flavor balance.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize the spices in your molasses cookies. A dash of ginger or a sprinkle of nutmeg can elevate flavors and make them uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store your molasses cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To enjoy them warm again, microwave for just 10-15 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- These molasses cookies become extra chewy when you slightly underbake them
- Be mindful of the spice levels; adjust according to your family’s preferences
- Remember to let them cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to avoid breaking
Sometimes, I bake these cookies just to hear my friends rave about their chewy goodness—nothing beats that smile!
FAQ
Can I substitute brown sugar for white sugar in molasses cookies?
Yes, brown sugar can enhance the flavor and moisture of your cookies.
How do I know when my molasses cookies are done baking?
Look for edges that are set while the center remains soft; they will firm up as they cool.
Can I freeze molasses cookie dough?
Absolutely! Freeze it in balls and bake fresh cookies whenever you crave them.
Molasses Cookies
There’s nothing quite like the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked molasses cookies to brighten your day. These soft and chewy treats are rich in flavor, blending dark brown sugar with a hint of spice for a delightful experience. Perfect for any occasion, whether as a snack during the holidays or a comforting dessert, these cookies are easy to make and sure to bring joy to your home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¾ cup unsulfured molasses
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 large egg
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and salt in a bowl.
- In another bowl, beat butter and dark brown sugar until fluffy (2-3 minutes).
- Add the egg and molasses; mix until smooth.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture until just combined.
- Scoop rounded dough balls onto greased baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are set but centers are soft.
- Cool on sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 100
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
