Back To School Cookies
Soft, spicy cookies with a rich molasses flavor, perfect for back-to-school treats. They appeal to cookie lovers of all ages and pair well with milk or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and molasses, then beat well.
- Stir in vinegar and evaporated milk.
- Mix and sift dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the molasses mixture and combine.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto greased baking sheets.
- Bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer cookie, consider reducing the baking time slightly or adding an additional egg. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer flavor. Additionally, using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour can add a nutty taste and boost nutrition. To enhance the spice profile, try incorporating some nutmeg or allspice alongside the cinnamon.
Serving Suggestions
These Back To School Cookies are delightful on their own or served with a glass of cold milk. For a fun after-school snack, pair them with fresh fruit or yogurt. You can also serve them alongside a slice of Grandma Winnie'S Sugar Cookies for a delightful cookie platter. They are perfect for lunchboxes or as a sweet treat during study breaks.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week or in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Reheat in the microwave for a few seconds for a warm treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Back To School Cookies contains roughly 812 calories, with 12g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1190mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or use coconut sugar for a less processed option. Keep in mind that these alternatives may slightly alter the texture and taste of the cookies, but they will still be delicious.
What can I add to the dough for extra flavor?
You can mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries to the dough for added texture and flavor. For a fun twist, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or some orange zest to brighten up the cookies.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are lightly golden around the edges and still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool. If you're unsure, you can do a toothpick test; a few crumbs should stick to the toothpick if they are ready.
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).