If you're yearning for a taste of nostalgia, these Old-Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies will take you back. They blend warm spices with the deep sweetness of molasses, creating a cookie that's both comforting and perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter. This should take about 2-3 minutes, resulting in a light and fluffy mixture. Next, beat in the molasses and egg, mixing until everything is thoroughly combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
Now, shape the dough into 1-inch balls. I find that using a small cookie scoop helps keep them uniform. Roll each ball in the granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
Bake the cookies for 9-11 minutes. You're looking for them to be set with cracked tops, which gives them that classic look. Once they're done, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These cookies are wonderful on their own but try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They also make a great base for ice cream sandwiches. During the holidays, serve them alongside hot apple cider or a spiced tea for a festive treat.
Sugar is the main sweetener and helps create the cookie's tender texture. Unsalted butter adds richness and flavor; using it softened ensures it creams well with the sugar. Molasses gives the cookies their distinct deep, dark flavor and chewy texture. Egg acts as a binder, helping the ingredients come together smoothly.
All-purpose flour is the backbone of the cookies, providing structure. Salt enhances the flavors of the spices and molasses. Baking soda is the leavening agent that allows the cookies to rise slightly and crack on top. Cinnamon, cloves, and ginger are the spices that bring warmth and depth to every bite. Finally, granulated sugar is used to roll the dough balls, adding a sweet, slightly crunchy exterior.
Share