Little Molasses Cookies
Little Molasses Cookies are rich, spicy treats with warm cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons with a glass of milk.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the soda in boiling water.
- Mix molasses, soda and water, melted shortening or oil, egg, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and salt with part of the flour.
- Add sugar and sift the remaining flour; then mix everything together.
- Roll the dough into good-sized balls and roll them in sugar.
- Bake at 375°F for 6 to 8 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half all-purpose flour and half whole wheat flour. You can substitute vegetable oil for shortening if desired, but it may slightly alter the flavor. To enhance the spices, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice. If you prefer a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar to 1/3 cup.
Serving Suggestions
These Little Molasses Cookies pair beautifully with a cup of warm milk or tea for a cozy snack. For a festive touch, serve them alongside a slice of Ritz Pecan Pie during holiday gatherings. They also make a delightful addition to a dessert platter at potlucks or family events.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To maintain their softness, you can place a slice of bread in the container. If you want to freeze them, place the cooled cookies in a freezer bag and they will keep well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Little Molasses Cookies contains roughly 609 calories, with 9g protein, 85g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2076mg per serving (90% 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 dark molasses instead of light molasses?
Yes, dark molasses will give your cookies a richer flavor and darker color. However, it may also make them slightly more bitter, so consider adjusting the sugar or spices to balance the taste.
What can I use instead of egg in this recipe?
You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture. Use 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg, letting it sit for a few minutes to thicken.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies should be slightly firm around the edges but still soft in the center when done. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them.
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).