Chewy Molasses Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 11 min Serves: 96 Cuisine: American

Chewy molasses cookies feature warm spices and rich molasses, offering a soft, chewy texture. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy treats with a spiced, sweet flavor.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup molasses
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk

Instructions

  1. Cream shortening and sugar, beating well at medium speed of an electric mixer.
  2. Add eggs and molasses; mix well.
  3. Combine flour, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, and ground cinnamon.
  4. Add to the creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
  5. Drop dough by rounded teaspoonfuls 1 1/2 inches apart on lightly greased cookie sheets.
  6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes.
  7. Cool on wire racks.

Tips & Substitutions

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of black pepper or a dash of cloves alongside the ginger and cinnamon. You can substitute the shortening with unsalted butter for a richer taste, or use coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Make sure to measure the flour correctly by spooning it into the cup and leveling it off to avoid dense cookies.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these chewy molasses cookies with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea for a comforting treat. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. Consider serving them as part of a holiday cookie platter alongside other favorites like Chocolate Chip Cookies Or Bars for a festive gathering.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months. To reheat, microwave for a few seconds or place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes until warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Chewy Molasses Cookies contains roughly 1248 calories, with 7g protein, 247g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (86% of the Daily Value), iron (74% of the Daily Value), and calcium (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2723mg per serving (118% of the Daily Value).

1248 kcal 62% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.6g 13% DV
Total Fat 30.3g 39% DV
Carbs 247.1g 90% DV
Fiber 3.5g 13% DV
Sugar 180.9g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2722.9mg 100% DV
Potassium 4049.2mg 86% DV
Cholesterol 158.1mg 53% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 52.1mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 22.1mg 25% DV
Vitamin D 0.4mcg 2% DV
Calcium 692.8mg 53% DV
Iron 13.3mg 74% DV
Diet fit 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 a different sweetener instead of sugar?

Yes, you can use brown sugar or coconut sugar as an alternative, which will add a deeper flavor. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, so monitor the cookie's consistency as you mix.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to handle, try adding a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Alternatively, chilling the dough for 30 minutes can also help firm it up for easier handling.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Absolutely! To make these cookies vegan, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer and use a plant-based shortening or coconut oil. Ensure the molasses is pure and free from any animal-derived additives.

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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