Mom'S Soft Ginger Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 8 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Mom's Soft Ginger Cookies are chewy, warmly spiced treats with a rich molasses flavor, ideal for fall or holiday seasons. Their soft texture and aromatic spices make them perfect for sharing with family and friends, offering a comforting, nostalgic taste of home-baked goodness.

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Ingredients

  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 3/4 cup shortening (soft)
  • 4 tablespoons molasses
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons soda

Instructions

  1. Sift flour with cinnamon, ginger, salt, and soda.
  2. Beat egg, then beat in sugar, shortening, and molasses.
  3. Add the flour and spice mixture to the wet ingredients and mix well.
  4. Drop by small teaspoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet.
  5. Do not press down the dough.
  6. Bake at 375°F for about 8 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a slightly different flavor, try using half brown sugar and half white sugar to add depth. If you don't have shortening, butter can be a good substitute, but it may alter the texture slightly. Ensure your molasses is fresh for the best taste. For extra spice, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice. Always sift the dry ingredients to ensure even mixing.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful ginger cookies warm with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a comforting treat. They pair beautifully with Chocolate Nut Pie for a festive dessert spread. For added flair, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with icing. Consider serving alongside No Cook Vanilla Ice Cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.

Storage & Reheating

These cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container; it will help retain moisture. If you want to freeze them, layer the cookies between parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag and they’ll last for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mom'S Soft Ginger Cookies contains roughly 176 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 13g fat.

176 kcal 9% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.1g 2% DV
Total Fat 13g 17% DV
Carbs 14.2g 5% DV
Fiber 0.5g 2% DV
Sugar 7.1g 14% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 320.3mg 14% DV
Potassium 72.5mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 6.4mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1.4mcg
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Calcium 54.1mg 4% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
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 substitute whole wheat flour, but the cookies may turn out denser. To maintain softness, consider using a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour. Adjust the liquid slightly if the dough appears too dry, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture.

What can I use if I don't have molasses?

If you don't have molasses, you can substitute it with an equal amount of honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that these alternatives may alter the taste slightly, but they will still yield delicious cookies. Dark corn syrup is another option that will mimic the texture of molasses.

How can I make these cookies softer?

To achieve softer cookies, avoid overbaking them; check for doneness at the lower end of the baking time. You can also add an extra egg yolk to the dough, which will contribute to a softer texture. Additionally, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help maintain moisture.

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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