Grandma Dougherty'S Molasses Cookies
Grandma Dougherty's Molasses Cookies offer warm, spicy flavors with rich molasses and cinnamon, perfect for cozy gatherings and cookie exchanges with a chewy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the baking soda in boiling water.
- Cream together the sugar, brown sugar, and shortening.
- Add molasses, eggs, the water with dissolved soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and vanilla; mix well.
- Gradually add the flour until the dough is soft but manageable.
- Refrigerate the dough for several hours or overnight.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until edges are golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsalted butter. You can also use dark molasses for a bolder taste. If you want to add a bit of crunch, fold in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips. Be careful not to overmix the dough; it should be soft but not sticky. Refrigerating the dough helps enhance the flavors, making them even better once baked.
Serving Suggestions
These molasses cookies are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea. For an added treat, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a slice of Easy Apple Dessert for a cozy dessert platter. They also make great gifts during the holidays.
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 on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To enjoy them warm, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Dougherty'S Molasses Cookies contains roughly 139 calories, with 0g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 10g 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 a different type of sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like stevia. However, keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture and flavor. If using liquid sweeteners, reduce the amount of molasses to maintain the right dough consistency.
What if I don't have shortening?
If you don't have shortening, you can use unsalted butter or coconut oil instead. Each will give the cookies a different flavor and texture, but both are viable substitutes. Just let the butter soften to room temperature before creaming it with the sugars.
How can I make the cookies softer?
To achieve softer cookies, avoid overbaking them; check for doneness a minute or two early. You can also consider adding an extra egg yolk to the dough for moisture. Additionally, ensure you’re measuring the flour correctly to prevent a dry 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).