Monkey Drop Cookies
Monkey Drop Cookies are chewy, spiced treats packed with the warm flavors of cinnamon, cloves, and raisins. Perfect for cozy gatherings or afternoon snacks, these cookies offer a delightful combination of sweetness and spice. Their easy drop-and-bake style makes them a family favorite for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the sugar and shortening together until smooth.
- Add the molasses and hot water to the creamed mixture and mix well.
- Stir in the baking soda, cinnamon, ground cloves, raisins, and flour until thoroughly combined.
- Drop teaspoons of the dough onto a baking sheet.
- Bake at 375°F for approximately 8 minutes or until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier twist. If you prefer, swap in some chopped nuts for added texture. Make sure your baking soda is fresh to ensure proper leavening. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of ground ginger.
Serving Suggestions
These Monkey Drop Cookies are delightful on their own but can be served alongside a glass of milk or a hot cup of tea. They also pair beautifully with Cinnamon Snowballs for a cookie platter. For a fun treat, try drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an extra indulgence.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container. If you'd like to freeze them, wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Monkey Drop Cookies contains roughly 2047 calories, with 34g protein, 338g carbohydrates, and 64g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (102% of the Daily Value), protein (69% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1292mg per serving (56% 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 type of sweetener?
Yes, you can use honey or maple syrup in place of molasses, but this may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Adjust the hot water accordingly if you choose a thicker sweetener. Keep in mind that molasses adds a distinct richness and depth to the cookies.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
Cookies are done when they are golden brown around the edges and slightly soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. If you prefer crunchier cookies, you can bake them an additional minute or two, but watch closely to prevent burning.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute the shortening with a vegan butter alternative and use a plant-based milk in place of the hot water. Ensure that the molasses you choose is vegan-friendly. This will give you a delicious vegan version while maintaining the same great taste.
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).