There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of warm molasses cookies baking in the oven. These old-fashioned molasses cookies are incredibly easy to make, bursting with rich flavor, and perfect for satisfying those sweet cravings. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to enjoy a delicious treat that evokes the warmth and nostalgia of simpler times. This recipe is perfect for quick dinner ideas or just a simple, healthy meal addition!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup dark molasses
- 2 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Creaming the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving a tender cookie. Use an electric mixer for best results, but a good old-fashioned hand mixer works too!
Step 2: Adding the Wet Ingredients
Beat in the dark molasses and eggs until well combined. The batter will be dark and rich—just how it should be!
Step 3: Combining the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. This ensures that the spices are evenly distributed throughout the cookies.
Step 4: Gradually Adding Dry to Wet
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
Step 5: Chilling the Dough
Cover the bowl and chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step helps prevent the cookies from spreading too thin during baking.
Step 6: Shaping and Baking
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
Step 7: Baking to Perfection
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. Keep a close eye on them as ovens vary.
Step 8: Cooling and Enjoying
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Best Molasses Cookies:
- Use good quality molasses: The flavor of your cookies will depend heavily on the quality of molasses you use.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies.
- Chill the dough: Chilling the dough is essential for preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking.
- Adjust baking time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust the baking time as needed.
Variations:
- Add nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch and extra flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a warmer spice profile.
- Chocolate chips: Dark chocolate chips are a delicious addition to these cookies.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: 150-180
- Fat: 8-10g
- Sugar: 15-20g
These old-fashioned molasses cookies are a simple pleasure, perfect for any occasion. Their rich flavor and chewy texture will transport you back to simpler times, making them a truly delightful homemade cooking experience. Enjoy!