Molasses Cookies are a timeless treat that brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. These cookies combine a delightful blend of spices, particularly ginger and cinnamon, with the rich sweetness of molasses, creating a chewy texture that is simply irresistible. Perfect for holiday celebrations or cozy evenings at home, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the world of these delicious cookies!

Why You’ll Love This Molasses Cookies

There are countless reasons to adore Molasses Cookies. First, they offer an incredible depth of flavor with the warm spices that evoke feelings of comfort and joy. Secondly, they are incredibly easy to make, making them perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike. This recipe results in soft molasses biscuits that are perfect for dunking in milk or enjoying with a warm cup of tea. Additionally, these cookies can be customized with add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts, making them versatile. Finally, they are perfect for sharing, making them an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or potlucks. You’ll find that once you know how to make molasses cookies, you’ll be making them again and again!

Ingredients for Molasses Cookies

Gather these items:

2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons ginger
1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon all-spice
¼ teaspoon salt
¾ cup unsalted butter (12 Tbsp – slightly softened)
½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
¼ cup granulated sugar
⅓ cup unsulphured or dark molasses (Grandma’s brand)
1 large egg (room temperature)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
⅓ cup coarse sugar (for rolling – or granulated sugar)

How to Make Molasses Cookies Step-by-Step

Step 1: Add the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, allspice, and salt to a large bowl. Whisk to combine and set aside until needed.
Step 2: Add the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar to a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment and beat on high speed until light and creamy (about 2 minutes).
Step 3: Add the molasses to the mixture and beat until well combined.
Step 4: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture and beat until well combined (about 1 minute). Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
Step 5: With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. The cookie dough will be slightly sticky.
Step 6: Cover the mixing bowl tightly with plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour (or up to 2–3 days).
Step 7: Preheat oven to 350°F.
Step 8: Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Set aside until needed.
Step 9: Remove cookie dough from the refrigerator. If the cookie dough has chilled for longer than 2 hours, let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before using.
Step 10: Roll the dough into one-ounce balls (about 1 Tablespoon each).
Step 11: Roll each dough ball in coarse sugar, then place them on the prepared baking sheet, 3 inches apart.
Step 12: Place the baking sheets on the center racks of the preheated oven and bake for 11–12 minutes or until the edges appear set. If the tops aren’t cracking, remove the baking sheet from the oven and gently bang it on the counter 2–3 times. This will help the cookies spread out and crack on top. Then, return the pan to the oven for one minute.
Step 13: Remove the pan from the oven and place on a wire rack to cool for 5 minutes, then using the parchment transfer to the rack to cool completely.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Molasses Cookies

Keep these in mind:

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature.
Cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Adjust spices according to your taste to create your own version of spiced molasses cookies.
For an extra touch, try adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking.

Best Ways to Serve Molasses Cookies

These cookies are delightful on their own, but there are many ways to enhance their enjoyment. Pair them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea for a comforting treat. You can also serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert. Additionally, for a fun twist, try making molasses cookies with chocolate chips or frost them with your favorite icing for a festive touch.

How to Store and Reheat Molasses Cookies

To keep your homemade molasses cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply reheat them in the microwave for a few seconds until just warm. This will bring back their soft, chewy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Molasses Cookies

What are molasses cookies?

Molasses cookies are soft, chewy treats made with molasses as a primary ingredient, along with spices like ginger and cinnamon. They are beloved for their rich flavor and comforting texture.

Why are molasses cookies popular?

These cookies are popular due to their unique flavor profile, which combines sweetness with warm spices. They evoke nostalgia and are often associated with holiday baking traditions.

Can I make vegan molasses cookies?

Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe to be vegan by replacing the egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce and using plant-based butter. This way, you can enjoy vegan molasses cookies without sacrificing taste!

Variations of Molasses Cookies You Can Try

If you’re looking to experiment, consider these variations: for a twist, make molasses ginger cookies by increasing the ginger or adding candied ginger. For a chewy delight, try adding oats for molasses oatmeal cookies. You can also create gluten-free molasses cookies by substituting the flour with a gluten-free blend. Lastly, try making traditional molasses cookie recipe with the addition of nuts or chocolate chips for an extra crunch!