Christmas Molasses Cookies
Festive and aromatic, these Christmas Molasses Cookies feature warm spices and rich molasses, perfect for holiday gatherings or to enjoy with a hot beverage.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar and butter together.
- Blend in orange juice, dark corn syrup, and molasses.
- Combine dry ingredients (flour, ginger, baking soda, salt, cloves, nutmeg, allspice) and add to creamed mixture; mix well.
- Chill the dough for 3 to 4 hours or overnight.
- Roll dough, a portion at a time, on a lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut into desired shapes.
- Place 2 inches apart on baking sheets.
- Bake at 350°F for 14 to 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar, as it adds moisture and depth. You can also substitute half the butter with coconut oil for a unique twist. If you want a spicier cookie, increase the ginger to 1 tablespoon. Ensure your dough chills adequately to prevent spreading during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Christmas Molasses Cookies make a delightful treat on their own or can be served alongside a warm cup of cocoa or spiced tea. They also pair beautifully with Madison's Cranberry Pumpkin Bread for a festive platter. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can last up to three months. To enjoy them warm, reheat in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Christmas Molasses Cookies contains roughly 269 calories, with 3g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1852mg per serving (81% 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 syrup instead of dark corn syrup?
Yes, you can substitute dark corn syrup with molasses or honey for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that molasses will enhance the spiciness of the cookies, while honey may lighten the texture slightly.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky to roll out?
If your dough feels sticky, you can dust it lightly with additional flour while rolling it out. Alternatively, chilling the dough longer will firm it up, making it easier to handle. Just ensure it doesn't get too cold, which can make it hard to work with.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To add a festive touch, consider icing the cookies with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice. You can also decorate them with colorful sprinkles or edible glitter. These small additions can elevate your cookies for holiday gatherings.
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).