Molasses Cookies(Old Fashioned Soft Type)

Prep: 240 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Old-fashioned molasses cookies offer a soft, chewy texture with warm spices, perfect for holiday baking or cozy gatherings, appealing to those who love classic, flavorful treats.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 cups molasses
  • 1 egg
  • 2/3 cup boiling water
  • 1 cup melted shortening
  • 3 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ginger
  • flour

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients except flour together well.
  2. Add enough flour to make a soft, dull-looking dough.
  3. Refrigerate the dough overnight.
  4. Roll out the dough onto a floured board to about 1/2-inch thickness.
  5. Cut out cookies with a cookie cutter.
  6. Sprinkle cookies with sugar.
  7. Bake at 375°F until lightly browned.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the mix. Make sure to use freshly ground spices for the best taste. If you're out of shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter. This dough can also be chilled for a shorter time if you're in a hurry, but overnight chilling yields the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

These molasses cookies are delightful on their own but can be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat. For a fun twist, try pairing them with Lydia Mummert'S Sugar Cookies for a cookie platter that showcases different flavors. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie exchanges or as a nostalgic dessert at family gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their soft texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make them tough.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Molasses Cookies(Old Fashioned Soft Type) contains roughly 739 calories, with 7g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 45g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1530mg per serving (67% of the Daily Value).

739 kcal 37% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.9g 14% DV
Total Fat 44.6g 57% DV
Carbs 83.6g 30% DV
Fiber 5.7g 20% DV
Sugar 3.1g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1530mg 67% DV
Potassium 684mg 15% DV
Cholesterol 154.9mg 52% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 37.8mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 43.8mg 49% DV
Calcium 185.2mg 14% DV
Iron 2.2mg 12% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Egg 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 instead of sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for a deeper flavor, but the texture may vary slightly. Liquid sweeteners like honey or agave can also be used, though they may alter the dough's consistency, so adjust the flour accordingly to maintain the right softness.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when they are lightly browned around the edges and the centers appear set but slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them. Keep an eye on them, especially if it’s your first time baking this recipe.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans for added texture and flavor. Just remember to adjust the flour if the dough becomes too sticky. Adding these ingredients can create a delightful variation that complements the spiciness of the molasses.

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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