Ruthie'S Drop Molasses Cookies
Ruthie's Drop Molasses Cookies are soft, flavorful treats with warm spices and chewy raisins, perfect for snacking or dessert. Their rich molasses taste and aromatic spices make them a comforting choice for cookie lovers of all ages, especially during cozy gatherings or holiday seasons.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine 1 cup sugar, 1 cup shortening, and 1 egg in a mixing bowl and beat until well blended.
- Dissolve 2 teaspoons soda in 1 cup boiling water, then add to the mixture.
- Add 1 teaspoon ginger, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of salt; mix well.
- Stir in 1/2 cup raisins.
- Gradually add 5 1/2 cups of flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto greased baking sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before transferring to wire racks.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer texture, consider using half brown sugar instead of all white sugar. If you don’t have raisins, you can substitute with chopped nuts or chocolate chips for a different twist. Make sure your shortening is at room temperature for easier mixing. If you prefer a spicier cookie, increase the ginger and cinnamon to taste. These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside a cup of tea.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these molasses cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee for a delightful pairing. They also go well as a sweet treat alongside a slice of Summer Fruit Pie or a scoop of ice cream. For a festive touch, consider dusting them with powdered sugar or serving with a side of Pimento Dip for a contrasting flavor experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they will keep for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ruthie'S Drop Molasses Cookies contains roughly 61 calories, with 1g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 fat instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute the shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a richer flavor. Just keep in mind that butter will give the cookies a slightly different texture and taste.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, try adding a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Alternatively, refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes can help firm it up for easier handling.
Can I add other spices to these cookies?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding spices like nutmeg, allspice, or cloves to enhance the flavor. Just remember to balance the amounts, as these spices can be quite strong. A pinch of each can add a lovely complexity to your cookies.
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).