Dutch Lace Cookies
Delicate Dutch Lace Cookies feature a crispy, caramelized texture with rich molasses flavor, perfect for sophisticated desserts or holiday treats that delight with their intricate edges.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine molasses, sugar, shortening, and vinegar in a saucepan; bring to a boil, stirring constantly.
- Boil for 1 minute.
- Remove from heat.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, soda, and salt.
- Add the sifted dry ingredients to the molasses mixture.
- Return to heat; cook until thick, stirring constantly.
- Drop 1/2 teaspoonfuls onto a greased baking sheet about 3 inches apart.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 3 to 5 minutes or until slightly browned.
- Cool slightly before removing from the sheet with a greased spatula.
- Roll slightly for a curly edge.
Tips & Substitutions
For a chewier texture, try substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce or coconut oil. Keep an eye on the cookies as they bake, as they can quickly go from perfect to overdone. If you'd like to add a twist, consider incorporating chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
These delicate cookies make a lovely treat on their own or can be served with a cup of tea or coffee. They also pair beautifully with Nonalcoholic Crowd Size Punch for a festive gathering. Consider adding a scoop of ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Dutch Lace Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dutch Lace Cookies contains roughly 495 calories, with 2g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (44% of the Daily Value), calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 791mg per serving (34% 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 sweetener instead of molasses?
Yes, you can substitute molasses with honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind that the flavor and color of the cookies will change. Adjust the quantity slightly, as honey is sweeter than molasses. The texture may also be a bit different, so monitor the cooking time closely.
What do I do if my dough is too thick?
If the dough becomes too thick to work with, try adding a tablespoon of warm water or milk at a time until it reaches a more manageable consistency. Just be cautious not to add too much, as this can affect the final cookie texture.
How can I ensure my cookies spread evenly while baking?
To help cookies spread evenly, make sure to drop them in uniform sizes on the baking sheet. Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking can also help control the spread and improve the texture. Ensure your baking sheet is not overcrowded to allow for proper airflow.
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).