Molasses Sugar Cookies
Molasses sugar cookies offer a perfect balance of rich molasses flavor with warm spices like cinnamon and cloves. Their chewy texture and sweet sugar coating make them a delightful treat for holidays or everyday snacking, appealing to those who enjoy classic, spiced cookies with a satisfying crunch and soft interior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening with 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and molasses; mix well.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, soda, cinnamon, salt, ginger, and cloves.
- Gradually add about 1/4 of the dry mixture to the creamed mixture, mixing until smooth after each addition.
- Chill the dough for 1 hour.
- Roll the dough into 1-inch balls.
- Roll each ball in sugar.
- Place the cookies 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 325°F for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer cookie, reduce the baking time by a minute or two. You can substitute butter for Crisco for a richer flavor, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly. If you're out of molasses, dark corn syrup can be used as a substitute, though the flavor will change. To enhance the spices, try freshly grating your ginger.
Serving Suggestions
These molasses sugar cookies are a delightful treat on their own or served alongside a glass of milk or hot tea. They pair beautifully with Holiday Deviled Eggs as part of a festive spread. Consider serving them at gatherings or during the holidays for a nostalgic and comforting dessert option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. To enjoy them warm, simply reheat them in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Molasses Sugar Cookies contains roughly 160 calories, with 2g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 6g fat.
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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a heartier cookie, though the texture may be denser. If you opt for gluten-free flour, ensure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum to maintain the cookie's structure.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to roll, try chilling it for an additional 30 minutes to firm it up. Alternatively, you can add a tablespoon of flour at a time until the desired consistency is reached, but be careful not to overdo it, as it may affect the cookie's texture.
How can I make these cookies more decorative?
To add a decorative touch, consider drizzling melted chocolate or icing over the cooled cookies. You can also sprinkle colored sugar or edible glitter on top before baking for a festive look, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
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).