Molasses Cookies(150 Years Old)
Molasses cookies offer a rich, spiced flavor with deep molasses sweetness and warm aromatic spices. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons, these cookies have a chewy texture and a hint of ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon, appealing to those who love classic, nostalgic baked treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and dark brown sugar together until well combined.
- Add the dark molasses slowly, stirring constantly to incorporate evenly.
- Mix the spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves) with the cream of tartar and add to the molasses mixture.
- In a separate bowl, combine the baking soda with the buttermilk.
- Alternate adding the flour and buttermilk mixture to the molasses mixture, mixing until a fairly stiff dough forms. You may not need all 6 cups of flour.
- Refrigerate the dough overnight, covered.
- Roll out the dough to at least 1/4-inch thickness, using as little additional flour as possible.
- Keep the dough refrigerated when not in use.
- Cut into cookies, brush with beaten egg, and bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 10 to 12 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding a pinch of black pepper or substituting half of the shortening with unsalted butter. If you prefer a chewier cookie, reduce the flour slightly, and be careful not to overbake. This recipe is versatile; you can also mix in chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. For a festive touch, try pairing these cookies with The Pink Stuff for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy these molasses cookies warm with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. They also pair wonderfully with Christmas Pea Salad for a delightful contrast of flavors. For a festive gathering, serve them alongside Old Fashion Sugar Cookies to provide a variety of tasty treats that everyone will love.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover molasses cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molasses Cookies(150 Years Old) contains roughly 2756 calories, with 6g protein, 393g carbohydrates, and 138g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), calcium (41% of the Daily Value), and potassium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 897mg per serving (39% 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 substitute the dark molasses with something else?
Yes, you can use light molasses or even honey as a substitute, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor and sweetness. Dark molasses provides a rich, deep flavor that is characteristic of traditional molasses cookies, so the taste may be milder with alternatives.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make these molasses cookies gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the texture. The cookies may turn out slightly different in texture, but they will still be delicious!
What’s the best way to roll out the dough?
To roll out the dough easily, place it between two sheets of parchment paper. This prevents sticking and reduces the need for additional flour. If the dough is too sticky, chill it for a bit longer. Roll to about 1/4-inch thickness for the perfect cookie 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).