Molasses Crinkles

Molasses crinkles are one of the most comforting, timeless cookies you can bake. Soft centers, crackly tops, warm baking spices, and that unmistakable molasses aroma make these cookies perfect for holiday gatherings, gift boxes, or anytime baking. This recipe uses classic pantry staples and delivers perfectly chewy cookies every single time.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Chill Time: 2 to 3 hours
Total Time: About 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 48 cookies
Yield: 3 to 4 dozen

Ingredients

• ¾ cup shortening
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 egg
• ¼ cup molasses
• 2 ¼ cups all purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar for rolling

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1

Cream the shortening and packed brown sugar together until smooth and fluffy. Add the egg and molasses and mix until fully combined. The mixture should look glossy and uniform, with no streaks of unmixed molasses.

Step 2

In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, salt, cloves, cinnamon, and ginger. Slowly add this dry mixture to the wet mixture and blend until the dough forms. Cover the bowl tightly and chill the dough for at least 2 to 3 hours. Chilling allows the flavors to deepen and keeps the cookies from spreading.

Step 3

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease cookie sheets or line them with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

Step 4

Shape the chilled dough into balls about the size of large walnuts. Roll each ball in granulated sugar until fully coated. Place the dough balls 3 inches apart on the baking sheets. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until the tops crack and the edges set. Allow the cookies to cool for one minute before moving them to a wire rack.

Pro Tips for Perfect Molasses Crinkles

1. Chill the dough long enough
   Chilling prevents overspreading and ensures the cookies maintain thick, tender centers.
2. Use fresh spices
   The flavor relies heavily on warm spices. If your spices are older than six months, consider replacing them for maximum flavor.
3. Avoid overbaking
   The cookies may look slightly soft when you remove them but will firm as they cool.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Molasses crinkles pair beautifully with drinks and desserts that complement their warm spice flavor.

• Serve alongside warm milk or hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
• Enjoy with chai tea or spiced black tea which enhances the ginger and cinnamon notes.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an old fashioned dessert combination.
• Package them in cellophane bags for holiday gifts, cookie swaps, or winter gatherings.

Nutrition Information

Serving Size	Calories	Protein	Carbs	Fat	Fiber	Sugar
1 cookie	79	1g	12g	3g	0g	7g

Disclaimer:
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on ingredients, portion sizes, and preparation methods. Always consult a nutrition professional for precise dietary information.

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