Grandma Mildred'S Molasses Cookies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Grandma Mildred's Molasses Cookies offer rich, warm flavors with cinnamon, raisins, and nuts, perfect for cozy gatherings and those craving classic, spiced treats.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup soft shortening or butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1 cup molasses
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 4 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon soda
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1 cup nuts
  • 1 cup raisins

Instructions

  1. Mix the soft shortening or butter, brown sugar, and molasses together.
  2. Add boiling water and mix well.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, salt, soda, baking powder, and cinnamon.
  4. Combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture.
  5. Add nuts and raisins to the dough.
  6. Chill the dough until firm.
  7. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a greased cookie sheet.
  8. Bake at 400°F for about 10 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider substituting half the butter with applesauce. If you're short on molasses, a mix of honey and brown sugar can work in a pinch. Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger for added warmth. Make sure to chill the dough; this step helps prevent spreading during baking, resulting in thicker cookies. Always use fresh baking powder for the best rise.

Serving Suggestions

These molasses cookies pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them a great afternoon snack. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Honey-Ginger-Bourbon Balls during the holidays. They also make a delightful treat to share at gatherings or as a dessert after a hearty meal, like Beer Steak.

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, then transfer to a freezer bag where they can last for up to three months. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes to regain their soft texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandma Mildred'S Molasses Cookies contains roughly 1704 calories, with 18g protein, 251g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (61% of the Daily Value), calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and protein (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

1704 kcal 85% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 18g 36% DV
Total Fat 74.1g 95% DV
Carbs 251.4g 91% DV
Fiber 7.4g 26% DV
Sugar 104.4g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 1670.9mg 36% DV
Cholesterol 43.3mg 14% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 115.3mcg 13% DV
Vitamin C 2mg 2% DV
Calcium 642.6mg 49% DV
Iron 11mg 61% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk 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 make these cookies vegan?

Yes, you can make these cookies vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based shortening or coconut oil and using a flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg substitute. Ensure the nuts and raisins you choose are also vegan-friendly.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough feels too sticky, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it becomes manageable. Chilling the dough can also help firm it up, making it easier to drop onto the cookie sheet.

Can I use different mix-ins instead of nuts and raisins?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your cookies by adding chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or even coconut flakes. Just keep the total amount of mix-ins to around two cups to maintain the right 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).

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