Mom'S Overnight Molasses Cookies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 12 min Cuisine: American

Delightful overnight molasses cookies with warm spices and rich molasses flavor, perfect for sharing with family and friends during holidays or cozy gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup shortening
  • 1/2 cup light molasses
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 4 cups flour

Instructions

  1. Mix sugar, shortening, and molasses together.
  2. Add beaten eggs and vanilla, then mix well.
  3. Stir in salt and baking soda.
  4. Gradually add flour until a soft dough forms, adding more if needed.
  5. Divide dough into two rolls on wax paper and refrigerate overnight.
  6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  7. Slice dough into cookies and place on greased cookie sheets.
  8. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until edges are golden.

Tips & Substitutions

For a softer cookie, be careful not to overbake; check them at 10 minutes. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute it with butter for a richer flavor. Consider adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for extra warmth, or try incorporating chocolate chips for a twist. These cookies can be made ahead and frozen for future enjoyment.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful molasses cookies with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea for a cozy treat. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Kat'S Rice Pudding during holiday gatherings, creating a comforting dessert spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the baked cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature or warm them in a microwave for a few seconds.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mom'S Overnight Molasses Cookies contains roughly 661 calories, with 4g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2173mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).

661 kcal 33% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.4g 9% DV
Total Fat 32g 41% DV
Carbs 58.6g 21% DV
Fiber 5.3g 19% DV
Sugar 8.5g 17% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2173.1mg 94% DV
Potassium 540.2mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 64.5mg 22% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 15.8mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 43.7mg 49% DV
Calcium 96.2mg 7% DV
Iron 1.4mg 8% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it may result in a denser cookie. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a balance of texture and flavor.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are golden brown and the centers are set but still soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet, so it's better to err on the side of slightly underbaking them.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the dough a few days in advance and keep it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator. Just remember to slice and bake them fresh when you're ready for that homemade cookie aroma.

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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