Save Irresistibly soft and chewy molasses cookies bursting with deep, warm spices and old-fashioned charm. These cookies are perfect for cozy afternoons, and the best part: you don&t need a mixer at all.
I first made these molasses cookies on a chilly fall day when I wanted something nostalgic and comforting. Their spiced aroma brought everyone to the kitchen, and friends still request them years later.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: 2 1/4 cups (280 g)
- Ground ginger: 2 teaspoons
- Ground cinnamon: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Ground cloves: 1/2 teaspoon
- Ground nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon
- Baking soda: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Unsalted butter (melted and cooled): 3/4 cup (170 g)
- Packed dark brown sugar: 1 cup (200 g)
- Unsulphured molasses: 1/4 cup (60 ml)
- Egg (room temperature): 1 large
- Pure vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Granulated sugar (for rolling): 1/4 cup (50 g)
Instructions
- Prep Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
- Blend Wet Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk melted butter, brown sugar, and molasses until smooth. Add egg and vanilla, whisking until combined.
- Combine & Form Dough:
- Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until no dry flour remains. Do not overmix.
- Shape Cookies:
- Scoop tablespoonfuls of dough and roll into balls (about 1 1/2 inches). Roll each ball in granulated sugar.
- Arrange on Baking Sheets:
- Place dough balls 2 inches apart on prepared sheets.
- Bake:
- Bake for 9–11 minutes, until cookies are puffed, edges are set but centers look slightly underbaked.
- Cool:
- Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Save These cookies disappeared quickly at our last family gathering, so I always double the batch when sharing with loved ones. Their old-fashioned flavor wins over all generations.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, measuring cups and spoons, baking sheets, parchment paper, and a wire rack are all you need to create chewy perfection.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), egg, and dairy (butter)—check ingredient labels if you have food sensitivities.
Nutritional Information
Each cookie contains 120 calories, 5 g total fat, 18 g carbohydrates, and 1 g protein.
Save Enjoy these chewy cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for the perfect afternoon treat. Their spiced aroma makes every bite comforting and nostalgic.
Recipe Guide
- → What gives these cookies their chewy texture?
The combination of molasses and a careful baking time that leaves the centers slightly underbaked creates the soft, chewy texture.
- → Can I substitute molasses with another ingredient?
Yes, dark treacle can be used as a substitute to maintain the rich flavor and moisture.
- → How do the spices affect the flavor?
Ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg provide a warm and aromatic spice blend that enhances the molasses' depth.
- → What is the best way to store these treats?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days or freeze for longer freshness.
- → Is any special equipment needed?
Basic kitchen tools like mixing bowls, whisk, spatula, baking sheets, and parchment paper are sufficient.
- → Can these be made without an electric mixer?
Absolutely, the ingredients are easily mixed by hand with a whisk or spatula.