Molasses Sugar Balls
Chewy molasses sugar balls with warm spices and rich molasses flavor, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy treats, appealing to those who love classic spiced cookies.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine shortening, sugar, molasses, egg, soda, flour, cloves, ginger, and cinnamon in a bowl until well mixed.
- Roll the mixture into small balls and roll each ball in sugar.
- Place the balls on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using unsalted butter instead of shortening. You can also substitute brown sugar for some of the granulated sugar to enhance the flavor. If you prefer a spicier cookie, increase the amount of ginger and cinnamon. Make sure to mix the ingredients until just combined to avoid tough cookies.
Serving Suggestions
These molasses sugar balls are delightful on their own but also pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. For a festive touch, serve them alongside other holiday treats like Easy Does It Cinnamon Rolls or Filbert Cookies. They make a great addition to a cookie platter for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover molasses sugar balls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molasses Sugar Balls contains roughly 755 calories, with 13g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 807mg per serving (35% 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 a different sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like stevia, but be aware that this may alter the flavor and texture. Adjust the quantity based on the sweetness level of the substitute you choose, as some are sweeter than regular sugar.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will firm up the dough, making it easier to roll into balls. Alternatively, you can lightly flour your hands or work surface while shaping the cookies.
Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can bring a delicious twist to the molasses flavor. Just fold in about a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips after mixing the dough. This will give you a delightful blend of flavors.
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).