Crinkle Top Cookies
Crinkle top cookies feature a spicy, molasses flavor with a crackled appearance, perfect for those who enjoy warm, aromatic treats with a chewy texture. Ideal for holiday baking.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cream together shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the beaten egg and mix well.
- Stir in molasses, salt, baking soda, ginger, cloves, and cinnamon until combined.
- Gradually add sifted flour, half a cup at a time, mixing after each addition until dough is firm.
- Roll dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
- Dip each ball in granulated sugar to coat evenly.
- Place the coated balls on an ungreased baking sheet, spacing them apart.
- Bake for approximately 10 minutes, until cookies are crackled and set.
- Let cookies cool slightly before transferring to wire racks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer texture, you can reduce the baking time slightly. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter. If you prefer a spicier flavor, feel free to increase the ginger or cinnamon. These cookies can also be made with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist. For a fun variation, try adding chocolate chips or nuts.
Serving Suggestions
These crinkle top cookies are perfect as a standalone treat or paired with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They also pair beautifully with 'No-Bake' Cookie Crumble Cheesecake for a delightful dessert platter. Consider serving them at holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack alongside a fruit salad for a balanced treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you'd like to keep them fresh longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes to regain their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crinkle Top Cookies contains roughly 45 calories, with 0g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 granulated sugar?
Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for granulated sugar in this recipe. It will add a deeper flavor and a bit more moisture, resulting in a chewier cookie. Just use the same amount as specified for granulated sugar.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to roll into balls, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm up the dough and make it easier to handle. You can also dust your hands with a little flour to prevent sticking while rolling.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free crinkle top cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure that the blend contains a binding agent like xanthan gum, or add a teaspoon of it to help the cookies hold their shape and texture.
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).