Moravian Molasses Cookies
Moravian Molasses Cookies are rich, spicy treats with deep flavors of molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Their crisp edges and chewy centers make them perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons, appealing to those who love warmly spiced, nostalgic cookies with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the shortening and margarine until it bubbles, then add to the sugar and stir in the molasses.
- Dissolve the soda in boiling water and add it to the mixture.
- Sift in approximately 4 pounds of flour.
- Add the spices (cloves, ginger, cinnamon) along with the flour.
- The dough should be almost stiff enough to roll. Cover and let it set overnight.
- Do not refrigerate the dough.
- On a floured, cloth-covered board, roll the dough as thin as possible.
- Cut with cookie cutters and place on a greased pan.
- Bake at 275°F for exactly 10 minutes.
- Let the cookies cool before removing from the pan.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer cookie, you can reduce the flour slightly or add a bit more molasses. If you're out of margarine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of butter or coconut oil. Ensure to sift the spices with the flour to evenly distribute their flavor. This recipe can be doubled if you're planning for a larger gathering or holiday event.
Serving Suggestions
These Moravian Molasses Cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings and pair beautifully with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They also make a delightful addition to a dessert platter alongside Easy Fruit Salad or Apple Blossom Punch. For a festive touch, consider decorating them with icing or sprinkles for special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them in a single layer. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 200°F for a few minutes until warmed through, preserving their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Moravian Molasses Cookies contains roughly 839 calories, with 3g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 81g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1378mg per serving (60% 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 make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by substituting the margarine with a plant-based alternative and using a vegan shortening. Ensure your sugar is also vegan, as some sugars are processed with bone char.
What is the best way to roll out the dough?
To roll out the dough easily, make sure your work surface is well-floured and use a rolling pin. You can also place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to prevent sticking, which allows for easier handling and cleaner cuts.
How can I adjust the spice levels in the cookies?
You can customize the spice levels based on your preference. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of ginger or cloves. Conversely, if you enjoy a more robust spice profile, feel free to add a touch more cinnamon or try incorporating nutmeg for added warmth.
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).