Grandma'S Molasses Cookies
Grandma's Molasses Cookies are spiced, chewy treats with rich molasses flavor and warm spices like ginger, cloves, and cinnamon. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons, these cookies offer a nostalgic taste of homemade comfort with crisp edges and a soft center.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the Crisco shortening in a 4-quart saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat and let cool.
- Add sugar, molasses, and egg to the cooled shortening; beat well until combined.
- Sift together flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cloves, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Chill the dough for 2 hours.
- Form the chilled dough into 1-inch balls and roll each in sugar.
- Place the cookie balls on a greased cookie sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until edges are golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you need a dairy-free option, substitute Crisco with a plant-based shortening. Make sure to chill the dough properly, as this helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. If you prefer a spicier cookie, feel free to increase the ginger and cloves slightly.
Serving Suggestions
These molasses cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also be served with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a cozy treat. For a fun twist, try pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delicious dessert sandwich. They also make a charming addition to holiday cookie platters alongside other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftover cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for a few minutes until soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Molasses Cookies contains roughly 119 calories, with 1g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 3g 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 these cookies be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help maintain the cookie's structure.
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).