Joe Froggers-Molasses Cookies
Joe Froggers-Molasses Cookies are classic New England treats boasting rich molasses flavor, warm spices, and a chewy texture. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons, these cookies offer a nostalgic taste that appeals to spice lovers and those craving a hearty, flavorful treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix and sift the flour, baking soda, salt, ground ginger, ground cloves, and allspice.
- Cream the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the molasses and extract to the creamed mixture and blend well.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with water if needed, beating until well blended.
- Wrap the dough in foil and chill overnight.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter. Make sure to sift your dry ingredients well to avoid clumps in the dough. Chilling the dough overnight helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to handle. Remember to preheat your oven for even baking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies warm with a glass of milk or a cup of tea, such as Cedi'S Tea, for a cozy treat. They make a delightful addition to holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack. For a fun twist, consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply microwave for a few seconds or warm in a preheated oven at 300°F until just soft.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Joe Froggers-Molasses Cookies contains roughly 716 calories, with 11g protein, 142g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value), iron (89% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (76% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1980mg per serving (86% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. It's best to use a combination of both flours for a lighter cookie. Start with a 50-50 mix to see how you like the results.
What can I use instead of rum in the recipe?
If you prefer not to use rum, vanilla extract is a great substitute and will still give your cookies a delicious flavor. You can also use almond extract for a different twist, but use it sparingly as it has a stronger flavor.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are set around the edges but still soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.
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).