Mom Z'S Molasses Cookies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 12 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Mom Z's Molasses Cookies boast a rich, spicy flavor with warm cinnamon and ginger, complemented by the sweetness of molasses and raisins. Crispy on the edges and chewy in the center, they are perfect for cozy afternoons, family gatherings, or holiday treats, appealing to those who love classic, flavorful cookies.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 c. sifted flour
  • 1 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1 tsp. baking soda
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. ginger
  • 2/3 c. shortening
  • 1/2 c. sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1/2 c. molasses
  • 1/2 c. sour milk
  • 1 c. raisins

Instructions

  1. Mix together in a bowl the sifted flour, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, and ginger.
  2. In a separate bowl, cream together the shortening, sugar, egg, and molasses.
  3. Add sour milk and raisins to the creamed mixture and stir until well combined.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.
  5. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto greased baking sheets.
  6. Bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 12 minutes or until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For a softer cookie, slightly underbake them, checking at the 10-minute mark. If you don't have sour milk, you can substitute regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice added. Consider adding chopped nuts or swapping raisins for chocolate chips for a twist. For those who prefer a spicier flavor, increasing the ginger or adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the taste.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these molasses cookies warm with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot tea for a comforting treat. They pair beautifully with Aunt Donna'S Cheese Ball as a delightful snack platter. For an extra special dessert, consider serving them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or crumbled into a bowl of warm apple crisp.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes until warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mom Z'S Molasses Cookies contains roughly 65 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 516mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).

65 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.9g 2% DV
Total Fat 1.6g 2% DV
Carbs 12g 4% DV
Fiber 0.4g 2% DV
Sugar 6.1g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 515.8mg 22% DV
Potassium 79.9mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 0.8mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.1mcg
Vitamin C 0.2mg
Calcium 18.1mg 1% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk 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 butter instead of shortening?

Yes, you can substitute butter for shortening in this recipe. Use the same amount, but keep in mind that it may alter the texture slightly, making the cookies a bit richer and potentially softer.

What can I substitute for molasses?

If you don't have molasses on hand, you can use dark corn syrup or a mix of honey and brown sugar as a substitute, although the flavor will be different. For a more authentic taste, consider using a blend of maple syrup and brown sugar.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

The cookies are done when they are golden brown around the edges and slightly soft in the center. They will firm up as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them. Aim for about 12 minutes in the oven.

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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