Raisin Molasses Sugar Cookies
Chewy raisin molasses cookies with warm spices and crunchy nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons, offering rich flavors and classic comfort in every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large bowl, cream together shortening and 1 cup of sugar. Add molasses and egg.
- Beat until well blended.
- Combine flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, and salt.
- Stir into molasses mixture and mix well.
- Fold in raisins and chopped walnuts.
- Form into 1-inch balls and roll in granulated sugar.
- Place on a greased cookie sheet, about 2 inches apart.
- Slightly flatten with the bottom of a glass if desired.
- Bake at 375°F for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown.
- Let stand for 1 minute.
- Remove cookies to a wire rack and cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar or swapping half of the shortening for unsalted butter. If you prefer a chewier cookie, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. You can also substitute the raisins with dried cranberries or cherries for a different twist. For added texture, try including oats or coconut flakes to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
These Raisin Molasses Sugar Cookies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. For a festive touch, serve them alongside the Cape Cod Cranberry Pie during gatherings. They also pair well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the cookies for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Raisin Molasses Sugar Cookies contains roughly 565 calories, with 9g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the sugar with alternatives like coconut sugar or maple syrup. If using liquid sweeteners like honey or agave, reduce the amount of molasses slightly to maintain the right consistency.
Why are my cookies spreading too much while baking?
If your cookies are spreading excessively, it could be due to the dough being too warm or not enough flour. Ensure the shortening is at room temperature, not melted, and consider chilling the dough before baking. Additionally, make sure to measure the flour accurately.
How do I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free Raisin Molasses Sugar Cookies, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for proper texture. Also, check that all other ingredients, especially baking soda, are gluten-free.
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).