Maggie'S Award Winning Molasses Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Delicious molasses cookies with warm spices and a chewy texture, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons, appealing to those who love classic baked treats.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup shortening
  • 1 cup molasses
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • 2 teaspoons soda
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of salt
  • 5 to 6 cups flour

Instructions

  1. Cream sugar and shortening together until smooth.
  2. Add molasses to the creamed mixture and mix well.
  3. Combine soda with boiling water and add to the mixture.
  4. Gradually add dry ingredients: flour, ginger, cinnamon, and salt, mixing until a dough forms.
  5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and sprinkle sugar over the top.
  6. Cut into shapes using cookie cutters.
  7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. If you prefer a vegan version, substitute shortening with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. Make sure your baking soda is fresh for the best rise. Allow the dough to chill for about an hour for easier rolling, and use a floured surface to prevent sticking.

Serving Suggestions

These molasses cookies are delightful on their own but pair wonderfully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie platters alongside Ma~Maw Mac'S Dinner Rolls or other festive treats. For a fun twist, serve 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. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Maggie'S Award Winning Molasses Cookies contains roughly 791 calories, with 2g protein, 65g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2330mg per serving (101% of the Daily Value).

791 kcal 40% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.8g 4% DV
Total Fat 60.8g 78% DV
Carbs 65g 24% DV
Fiber 4.3g 16% DV
Sugar 45.2g 90% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2330mg 100% DV
Potassium 1058.7mg 23% DV
Cholesterol 0.5mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1.2mcg
Vitamin C 21.8mg 24% DV
Calcium 187.5mg 14% DV
Iron 3.5mg 20% DV
Contains 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 use a different type of sweetener?

Yes, you can substitute the sugar with brown sugar or even maple syrup, though it may alter the texture slightly. If using liquid sweeteners, reduce the amount of molasses to maintain the right consistency.

What if I don't have shortening?

If you don't have shortening, you can replace it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or a vegan butter alternative. This will give the cookies a slightly different flavor and texture, making them richer.

How can I make these cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, reduce the baking time slightly or add a tablespoon of milk to the dough. Also, ensuring not to overbake them will help maintain a chewy 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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