Cry Baby Cookies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Cry Baby Cookies are spicy, chewy treats packed with warm ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, complemented by sweet raisins and rich molasses. Their hearty flavor and crispy edges make them perfect for cookie lovers of all ages, providing a nostalgic, comforting experience with each bite.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup shortening
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 3 eggs
  • 5 cups flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon cloves
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons ginger
  • 2 teaspoons soda
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup molasses
  • 2/3 cup hot water
  • 1 teaspoon vinegar
  • 1 cup raisins

Instructions

  1. Into a 2-cup measuring cup, pour molasses, hot water, and vinegar.
  2. Beat shortening, sugar, and eggs until creamy.
  3. Add flour and spices alternately with the molasses mixture.
  4. Stir in raisins.
  5. Place spoonfuls of batter onto a greased pan.
  6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
  7. Frost if desired.
  8. Enjoy.

Tips & Substitutions

For a softer texture, consider reducing the flour slightly or adding an extra egg. If you don't have shortening, butter can be used as a substitute, but it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. To enhance the spices, try adding a pinch of nutmeg. These cookies can also be made with different dried fruits like cranberries or cherries.

Serving Suggestions

These Cry Baby Cookies are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. For an extra treat, consider frosting them with cream cheese frosting or serving them alongside a slice of Moist Cornbread for a comforting dessert spread.

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 and then transfer to a zip-top bag, where they can last for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a warm oven for a few minutes to regain softness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Cry Baby Cookies contains roughly 103 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

103 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.6g 3% DV
Total Fat 0.6g 1% DV
Carbs 24g 9% DV
Fiber 2.4g 9% DV
Sugar 13.4g 27% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 360.8mg 16% DV
Potassium 279.3mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 0.6mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.3mcg
Vitamin C 3.8mg 4% DV
Calcium 78.6mg 6% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal 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 type of flour in this recipe?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, though it may change the texture slightly. If you prefer a gluten-free version, try a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, ensuring it includes xanthan gum for structure.

What can I substitute for molasses if I don't have it?

If you don't have molasses, a mixture of honey and brown sugar can work as a substitute. Use 1 cup of honey and reduce the sugar in the recipe slightly to maintain the right sweetness and consistency.

How can I make these cookies more festive?

To make these cookies more festive, consider adding seasonal spices such as nutmeg or allspice. You can also decorate them with colored icing or sprinkles after baking, or incorporate chopped nuts for added crunch.

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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