Molasses Snaps
Molasses Snaps are crisp, spiced cookies with rich molasses flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a warmly spiced treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat shortening and brown sugar until creamy.
- Beat in eggs and molasses.
- Mix dry ingredients and stir in raisins and nuts, if used.
- Stir flour mixture into molasses mixture.
- Drop dough from a teaspoon onto a lightly greased baking sheet, spacing cookies about 2 inches apart.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes or until set but not hard.
- Remove from baking sheet while warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half the shortening with unsweetened applesauce. If you prefer a different spice profile, you can replace the ginger with nutmeg or allspice. Ensure to measure your flour accurately to avoid dense cookies. Chilling the dough for about 30 minutes can help prevent spreading during baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Molasses Snaps are delightful served with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. For a festive twist, pair them with Creamed Broccoli Soup as a light meal. They also make a great addition to a holiday cookie platter alongside Chocolate-Toffee Caramel Bars and Caramel Brownie Tarts.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Molasses Snaps 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 bag for up to three months. 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 Molasses Snaps contains roughly 208 calories, with 1g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 490mg per serving (21% 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 use other types of sugar instead of brown sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar for brown sugar, but keep in mind that the cookies may be less moist and have a different flavor. To retain some moisture, consider adding a tablespoon of molasses for each cup of granulated sugar used.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Molasses Snaps, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum. Make sure to check the blend's proportions, as some may require different liquid adjustments in the recipe.
What can I use instead of shortening?
If you want to avoid shortening, you can use unsalted butter or coconut oil as a substitute. Both will add a different flavor and texture, so choose based on your preference. If using butter, keep it cold and cut into small pieces before creaming with sugar.
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).