MOLASSES COOKIES

Molasses Cookies

Molasses cookies have long been a symbol of warmth, comfort, and home baking during the cold months. As the first snowfall settles outside the window, the aroma of baking molasses cookies transforms the kitchen into a cozy retreat. These cookies are crisp at the edges, soft in the middle, and deeply spiced, creating the perfect treat for winter days, holiday gatherings, or a quiet moment with a warm mug of hot chocolate. This recipe is quick, simple, and consistently dependable. Whether you are baking them for the first time or adding them to your annual holiday traditions, these molasses cookies will become a favorite in your home.

This version is also wonderfully approachable for beginners. There is no need to chill the dough, and the ingredients come together easily in a single bowl. You can use either butter or coconut oil, and the combination of warm spices makes the cookies aromatic and flavorful. The rich sweetness of dark brown sugar, granulated sugar, and unsulphured blackstrap molasses gives these cookies their signature chewiness and color. Over the years, this recipe has become a beloved classic in many households because of its simplicity and exceptional taste.

Below you will find a complete guide to making the best molasses cookies including helpful tips, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions. Enjoy the process, enjoy the flavor, and embrace the warmth these molasses cookies bring to your kitchen.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup unsalted room temperature butter or soft (not melted) coconut oil
• 1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsulphured blackstrap molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 tablespoon water, plus more if necessary
• 1/3 cup cane sugar, for rolling

STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Preparing the pan early ensures the dough is ready to be baked the moment it is mixed. Using parchment prevents sticking and encourages even spreading.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or using an electric hand mixer, cream the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air and helps create soft, chewy centers. Add the molasses and vanilla extract and continue mixing until fully combined.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, ginger, cardamom, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing between additions. Add 1 tablespoon of water to loosen the dough. If the mixture still feels dry, add more water in small increments until the dough is cohesive.

Step 4: Shape and Bake the Cookies

Use a 2 inch cookie scoop to form the dough into balls. Roll each ball in the cane sugar until coated. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet at least 2 inches apart. Lightly press down on each dough ball. Bake for 10 minutes, until the cookies are puffed and cracking on top. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

PRO TIPS

1. Use natural cane sugar for rolling. Its slightly coarse texture creates a crisp outer edge while keeping the center soft.
2. Bake one sheet at a time for even cooking. Baking multiple sheets causes heat distribution differences and uneven cookie spread.
3. Do not skip the cooling period. The cookies continue to set and develop their perfect texture during the 10 minute resting time.
4. If your kitchen is cold, warm the coconut oil slightly so it mixes smoothly without melting.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS AND PAIRINGS

Molasses cookies pair beautifully with a wide range of beverages and desserts. Serve them with hot chocolate, chai tea, classic black tea, or warm apple cider for a comforting winter treat. They also complement a scoop of vanilla ice cream when served slightly warm. You can crumble them into yogurt parfaits or layer them in holiday dessert boards alongside gingerbread cookies, lemon shortbread, or peanut butter blossoms. For a holiday gathering, present them in a tin lined with parchment for a traditional homemade gift.

NUTRITION TABLE

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 cookie	150	1g	22g	6g	1g	12g

Disclaimer:
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on ingredients and preparation. Consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.

FAQs

Print