Molasses Cookies(Chewy German Cookie)

Prep: 20 min Cook: 13 min Serves: 144 Cuisine: German

Chewy German molasses cookies are rich, spiced treats with deep flavors of molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Their chewy texture and aromatic spices make them perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy snack, appealing to those who enjoy hearty, flavorful cookies with a nostalgic touch.

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Ingredients

  • 1 pint molasses
  • 1 pound brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon shortening
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon cloves
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 8 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 pound chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. In a saucepan, mix together the molasses, brown sugar, spices, and water.
  2. Bring to a boil and sustain for 3 minutes.
  3. Remove from heat and cool.
  4. Add chopped nuts to the cooled mixture.
  5. Mix in the flour combined with baking powder until well incorporated.
  6. Let the dough stand until cold.
  7. Divide the dough and roll out on a floured surface with a rolling pin or pat by hand.
  8. Cut into diamond shapes and place on a greased cookie sheet.
  9. Bake at 350°F for 10 to 13 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more robust flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of freshly grated ginger or substituting half of the brown sugar with maple syrup. If you prefer a less chewy texture, reduce the amount of molasses slightly. Ensure your flour is spooned into the measuring cup to prevent overly dense cookies. These cookies can also be made gluten-free by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

These molasses cookies are delightful on their own but can be served with a glass of milk or paired with a warm cup of tea. For an extra treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or try them with a spread of Orange Julep for a refreshing twist. They also make a lovely addition to a cookie platter during the holiday season.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover molasses cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven to restore their chewy texture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Molasses Cookies(Chewy German Cookie) contains roughly 2144 calories, with 57g protein, 461g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (175% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (148% of the Daily Value), and protein (115% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1614mg per serving (70% of the Daily Value).

2144 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 57.3g 100% DV
Total Fat 20.3g 26% DV
Carbs 461.2g 100% DV
Fiber 41.5g 100% DV
Sugar 3.9g 8% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1613.7mg 70% DV
Potassium 1808.1mg 38% DV
Cholesterol 0.1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 31mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 44.5mg 49% DV
Calcium 1198mg 92% DV
Iron 31.5mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
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 sugar instead of brown sugar?

While brown sugar adds moisture and a rich flavor, you can substitute it with white sugar, but the cookies will be less chewy and lack some depth. To replicate the flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of molasses to the white sugar.

How can I make these cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, try reducing the baking time slightly or adding an extra tablespoon of shortening. You can also incorporate a bit of honey or corn syrup to the dough to enhance moisture and tenderness.

Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?

Yes, adding chocolate chips is a great way to elevate the flavor of these molasses cookies. Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a delicious contrast to the spices. Just fold them into the dough along with the nuts for a delightful twist.

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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