Molasses Cookies

Name: Molasses Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup brown sugar (packed); 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Warm, chewy, and perfectly spiced, molasses cookies are a nostalgic treat that fill your kitchen with a comforting aroma. With their unique depth of flavor and soft texture, these cookies are not just a dessert; they’re a hug in cookie form! Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or as an after-school snack, molasses cookies are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth and bring joy to your day.

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup unsulfured molasses
1 large egg
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes about 24 cookies. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 10-12 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 cookie) contains approximately 120 calories, 4g of fat, 20g of carbohydrates, 1g of protein, and 10mg of cholesterol.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
Add the molasses and egg to the butter mixture, and mix well.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Chill the dough for about 30 minutes for easier handling.
Roll the dough into balls, then roll in granulated sugar.
Place the cookies on a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked.
Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute dark brown sugar for light brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Additionally, if you prefer a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Serving and Pairings

Molasses cookies pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie platters or can be enjoyed alongside vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert.

Storage and Reheating

Store molasses cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a microwave for a few seconds or warm them in the oven for a few minutes.

Cooking Mistakes

Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies.
Not chilling the dough can result in spreading too much during baking.
Using too much flour will make the cookies dry.
Not measuring ingredients accurately can alter the texture and flavor.
Skipping the rolling in sugar can affect the final sweetness and texture.

Helpful Tips

Always use fresh spices for the best flavor.
Let the cookies cool completely before storing them.
Experiment with adding chocolate chips or nuts for variations.
Check for doneness by looking for a set edge and slightly soft center.

FAQs

Can I use other sweeteners instead of molasses?

While molasses provides a unique flavor, you can use honey or maple syrup as alternatives, but the taste will differ significantly.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies should be slightly firm around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake.

What can I do if my cookies turn out too hard?

If your cookies are hard, they may have been overbaked. Next time, reduce the baking time slightly, and make sure to store them in an airtight container to retain moisture.

Are molasses cookies good for shipping?

Yes, molasses cookies hold up well during shipping. Just ensure they are well-packed to avoid breakage.

Conclusion

Molasses cookies are a delightful treat that captures the essence of comfort baking. Their rich, spiced flavor and chewy texture make them a favorite among many. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or stored for later, these cookies are sure to bring joy to your home. Try baking a batch today and experience their deliciousness for yourself!