Save Irresistibly soft and chewy molasses cookies offer the perfect blend of deep, warm spices and rich molasses flavor. They're easy to whip up and ideal for cozy afternoons, with no mixer required.
I remember baking these cookies on chilly weekends with my kids, letting them roll the dough in sugar and watch the aroma fill our kitchen. The first bite always brings a smile and a rush of nostalgia for family baking traditions.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/4 cups (280 g)
- Ground ginger: 2 teaspoons
- Ground cinnamon: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Ground cloves: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon
- Baking soda: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Unsalted butter: 3/4 cup (170 g), melted and cooled slightly
- Packed dark brown sugar: 1 cup (200 g)
- Unsulphured molasses: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Egg: 1 large, room temperature
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Granulated sugar, for rolling: 1/4 cup (50 g)
Instructions
- Prep:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- Whisk flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt together in a medium bowl.
- Mix Wet Ingredients:
- Whisk melted butter, brown sugar, and molasses in a large bowl until smooth and glossy. Add egg and vanilla, whisking until combined.
- Combine:
- Stir dry ingredients into wet mixture with a spatula just until no dry flour remains. Do not overmix.
- Shape:
- Scoop tablespoonfuls of dough and roll into balls (about 1 1/2 inches). Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
- Arrange:
- Place dough balls 2 inches apart on baking sheets.
- Bake:
- Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, until cookies are puffed and edges set but centers appear slightly underbaked.
- Cool:
- Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Save Our family loves sharing these molasses cookies during the holidays. They've even become a favorite for cookie exchanges and bake sales.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, measuring cups and spoons, baking sheets, parchment paper, wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), egg, and dairy (butter). Always check ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Per cookie: Calories 120, Total Fat 5 g, Carbohydrates 18 g, Protein 1 g
Save Enjoy these chewy molasses cookies fresh or freeze for later treats. They're sure to become a staple in your home baking lineup!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How can I make these cookies extra chewy?
Slightly underbaking the cookies helps retain moisture, resulting in a softer, chewier texture.
- → What spices give these cookies their distinctive flavor?
Ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg combine with molasses to create a warm, aromatic flavor profile.
- → Can I substitute molasses with another ingredient?
Dark treacle can be used as a substitute for molasses without affecting the texture significantly.
- → Is a mixer required to prepare the dough?
No mixer is needed; whisking and stirring by hand are sufficient for combining the ingredients smoothly.
- → How should I store the cookies to keep them fresh?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. They also freeze well for longer storage.
- → Can a pinch of black pepper enhance these cookies?
Yes, adding black pepper introduces a subtle spicy kick that complements the warm spices and molasses.