Molasses Ginger Drops

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 60 Cuisine: American

Molasses Ginger Drops are spicy, sweet cookies with bold ginger and molasses flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons with a warm cup of tea.

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Ingredients

  • 3 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ginger
  • 1 cup shortening
  • 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup molasses
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts

Instructions

  1. Sift together all-purpose flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, and ginger.
  2. Cream shortening; beat in brown sugar.
  3. Stir in molasses.
  4. Beat in eggs one at a time.
  5. Stir in dry ingredients and chopped walnuts.
  6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto greased cookie sheets.
  7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a softer texture, consider using butter instead of shortening, which can enhance the flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the ginger to 1 teaspoon. You can substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version. Make sure to sift the dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even mixing and avoid clumps.

Serving Suggestions

These delightful cookies are perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them alongside Elna'S Congealed Salad for a contrasting texture and flavor. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a sweeter finish or pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Molasses Ginger Drops 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, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their softness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Molasses Ginger Drops contains roughly 751 calories, with 13g protein, 133g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (43% of the Daily Value), calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

751 kcal 38% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13.1g 26% DV
Total Fat 20.5g 26% DV
Carbs 133.2g 48% DV
Fiber 3.3g 12% DV
Sugar 46.3g 93% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 1298.2mg 28% DV
Cholesterol 116.1mg 39% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 28.6mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 0.5mg 1% DV
Calcium 525.6mg 40% DV
Iron 7.7mg 43% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

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 flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. However, keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly, making the cookies denser.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky to handle, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm it up, making it easier to drop onto the cookie sheets. Additionally, lightly dusting your hands with flour can help manage stickiness when shaping the cookies.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Absolutely! To make vegan Molasses Ginger Drops, substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use a plant-based shortening or coconut oil instead of traditional shortening. The flavor will still be rich and delicious while accommodating a vegan diet.

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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