Emily'S Molasses Cookies

Prep: 70 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Chewy, spiced molasses cookies with warm cinnamon and apple pie spice, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons with a comforting, aromatic treat.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup melted shortening or substitute 1/2 cup oil
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon apple pie spice

Instructions

  1. Mix sugar, molasses, and egg with oil or shortening; set aside.
  2. Sift together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and apple pie spice.
  3. Add molasses mixture to flour mixture; blend and chill about 1 hour.
  4. Roll into balls 1 1/2-inch in diameter.
  5. Place on greased cookie sheets.
  6. Flatten with fork tines.
  7. Bake at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a softer cookie, consider reducing the baking time slightly. If you don't have molasses, you can substitute it with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup, although this will alter the flavor slightly. Chilling the dough is crucial; it helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can increase the amount of cinnamon or add ginger.

Serving Suggestions

These molasses cookies are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside a batch of Dustin'S Chocolate Squares during the holidays. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter featuring other treats, like Banana-Pecan Bread.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh, you can also freeze the cookies for up to three months. When reheating, place them in a microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their softness. Avoid overheating to prevent them from becoming tough.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Emily'S Molasses Cookies contains roughly 170 calories, with 1g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 8g fat.

170 kcal 8% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.8g 2% DV
Total Fat 8.3g 11% DV
Carbs 24.1g 9% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 15.1g 30% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 242.2mg 11% DV
Potassium 353.5mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 25.8mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 6.3mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 1mg 1% DV
Calcium 65.2mg 5% DV
Iron 1.2mg 6% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in a denser cookie. If you do, consider adding a tablespoon of extra liquid to balance the texture. Whole wheat flour adds a nutty flavor, which complements the spices in the cookies.

What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?

If your cookies spread too much, it might be due to the dough being too warm. Ensure you chill the dough for at least an hour before baking. Also, check that your baking soda is fresh, as expired leavening agents can cause unwanted spreading.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes, you can easily make these cookies vegan by replacing the egg with a flaxseed meal or a chia seed egg (1 tablespoon of seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water). Additionally, use a plant-based shortening or oil instead of traditional shortening. The cookies will still be delicious!

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →