Amish Molasses Cookies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 120 Cuisine: American

Delicious Amish molasses cookies offer rich, spiced flavors with a soft yet chewy texture, perfect for those who love classic homemade treats with a hint of molasses.

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Ingredients

  • 5 cups sugar
  • 2 1/2 cups lard or shortening
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 cup molasses
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 3 tablespoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 10-12 cups flour

Instructions

  1. Cream the sugar, lard or shortening, eggs, and molasses together.
  2. Dissolve the baking soda in hot water and add to the creamed mixture.
  3. Add vanilla and gradually mix in the flour until well combined.
  4. Make small balls of dough, flatten them using a greased glass dipped in sugar, and place on a greased cookie sheet.
  5. Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes until lightly browned.
  6. Remove from oven and allow to cool before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a softer cookie, consider reducing the baking time slightly or adding an extra egg. If you don't have lard, vegetable shortening can work as a substitute, though it may alter the texture slightly. Remember to sift the flour to ensure even distribution. This recipe is great for large gatherings, so you can always double it for events alongside treats like Carl Reiner'S Cookies.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delicious cookies warm with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful treat. They pair wonderfully with other desserts like Butternut Squash And Sour Cream for a balanced dessert table. For an extra touch, consider topping them with a light dusting of powdered sugar or pairing them with a creamy dip.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh, you can also freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes, which will revive their softness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Amish Molasses Cookies contains roughly 869 calories, with 11g protein, 175g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (121% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and calcium (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

869 kcal 43% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 10.6g 21% DV
Total Fat 6.1g 8% DV
Carbs 174.9g 64% DV
Fiber 13.3g 47% DV
Sugar 51.2g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 2021.3mg 43% DV
Cholesterol 156mg 52% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 37.8mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 109.1mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 603.3mg 46% DV
Iron 6.5mg 36% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for white sugar, which will add a richer flavor and moisture to the cookies. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the texture, making them chewier. Aim for a mix of half brown and half white sugar for the best results.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to handle, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Chilling the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes can also help firm it up, making it easier to shape into balls.

How can I make these cookies more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of these cookies, consider adding spices like ground ginger, cinnamon, or nutmeg. A tablespoon of finely grated orange zest can also give them a fresh twist. Additionally, mixing in chocolate chips or nuts can add texture and depth to the flavor.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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