Molasses Spice Cookies

Prep: 30 min Cook: 12 min Serves: 48 Cuisine: American

Warm, spiced molasses cookies with rich flavors of cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday treats, offering a chewy texture and aromatic aroma.

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Ingredients

  • 3/4 cup soft margarine
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 2 1/4 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Cream the margarine and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Beat in the egg and molasses until well combined.
  3. Sift together the flour, cinnamon, ginger, ground cloves, baking powder, and salt.
  4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix well.
  5. Chill the dough several hours until firm.
  6. Shape the dough into walnut-sized balls and roll in granulated sugar.
  7. Press down each ball with a floured tumbler to flatten slightly.
  8. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 12 minutes until edges are golden.
  9. Cool on wire racks before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For the best texture, ensure your margarine is softened but not melted. If you prefer a spicier flavor, consider adding a bit more ginger or cinnamon. You can substitute the molasses with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile. If gluten-free, try using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Chill the dough overnight for deeper flavors.

Serving Suggestions

These Molasses Spice Cookies are perfect for the holiday season and pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. For an enjoyable dessert spread, serve alongside a slice of Easy Caramel Apple Pie or Sweet Muffins. They also make a delightful gift when packaged in a festive tin.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag where they can last up to three months. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until soft.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Molasses Spice Cookies contains roughly 61 calories, with 0g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.

61 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.3g 1% DV
Total Fat 0.3g
Carbs 14.9g 5% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 11g 22% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 105.9mg 5% DV
Potassium 40.7mg 1% DV
Cholesterol 9.7mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.4mcg
Vitamin C 0.4mg
Calcium 41.9mg 3% DV
Iron 0.2mg 1% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
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 different types of sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can use white sugar instead of brown sugar for a lighter flavor, but brown sugar adds moisture and richness. You could also try coconut sugar for a healthier alternative, which will give a slight caramel flavor.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to handle, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly, as this helps firm it up for easier shaping.

Can I add nuts or chocolate to the cookies?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can add an enjoyable crunch. You could also mix in chocolate chips for a sweet contrast to the spices. Just keep in mind that adding ingredients may alter the baking time slightly.

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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