Old Fashioned Molasses Cookies

Prep: 30 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Old Fashioned Molasses Cookies feature rich molasses flavor complemented by warming ginger and a hint of salt. These soft, chewy cookies are perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday treats, offering a nostalgic taste with a delightful sugary coating. They keep well and pair beautifully with a glass of milk.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 scant cup lard or other shortening
  • 3/4 cup molasses
  • 2 eggs
  • 6 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda

Instructions

  1. Cream together in a large bowl the sugar, lard or other shortening, molasses, and eggs.
  2. Sift the flour, ginger, and salt. Dissolve the baking soda in the hot coffee.
  3. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the molasses mixture, adding the coffee alternately.
  4. Chill the dough.
  5. Roll out the dough to a thick layer, about 1/2 inch thick.
  6. Cut the dough with a round cutter. Dip the cut cookies into sugar.
  7. Place the cookies on a greased baking sheet, leaving space to spread.
  8. Bake at 375°F for about 10 minutes, ensuring they do not brown too much.

Tips & Substitutions

For a softer cookie, reduce the flour slightly or add an extra egg. If you want a dairy-free option, you can substitute lard with coconut oil or vegetable shortening. You can also experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor. Chilling the dough is essential for better texture, so don’t skip this step!

Serving Suggestions

These Old Fashioned Molasses Cookies are delightful served with a warm cup of tea or coffee, making them a perfect afternoon snack. They also pair beautifully with **Peanut Butter Delight** for a dessert platter. For a fun twist, consider serving them alongside **Chocolate Bonbons** for a chocolatey contrast that complements the spices in the cookies.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag, where they will last for up to three months. Reheat in a microwave for a few seconds to enjoy their original softness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old Fashioned Molasses Cookies contains roughly 60 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.

60 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.9g 2% DV
Total Fat 0.7g 1% DV
Carbs 13.2g 5% DV
Fiber 0.8g 3% DV
Sugar 3.1g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 428.4mg 19% DV
Potassium 140.2mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 19.6mg 7% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 4.7mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 5.5mg 6% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 32.4mg 2% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
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 a different type of sweetener instead of sugar?

Yes, you can substitute brown sugar for a deeper flavor, or use coconut sugar for a healthier alternative. However, this may slightly alter the texture and sweetness of the cookies, so adjust according to your preferences.

What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is sticky, you can gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Alternatively, chilling the dough longer can help firm it up, making it easier to roll and cut.

How can I make these cookies more festive?

To make your cookies more festive, consider adding holiday spices like allspice or cloves. You can also decorate them with icing or sprinkles after baking for a fun touch. Pairing them with seasonal drinks can enhance the festive spirit.

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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