Spice Molasses Cookies
Spice Molasses Cookies offer warm, aromatic flavors with ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, perfect for cozy gatherings or holiday treats that appeal to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together until well combined.
- Chill the dough for 1 hour.
- Shape the dough into 1-inch balls.
- Roll each ball in sugar.
- Place the balls 1 inch apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 375°F for 9 to 11 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using dark molasses instead of light. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute half of the shortening with applesauce. Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly; this step is crucial for helping the cookies maintain their shape during baking. For a festive twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a hint of heat.
Serving Suggestions
These Spice Molasses Cookies are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a warm cup of spiced chai or hot cocoa. Serve them as a sweet treat during holiday gatherings or alongside a cheese platter for a wonderful contrast. For a fun twist, consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or alongside a slice of No-Bake Biscuit Tortoni.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh, you can also freeze the cookies in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to regain their chewy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spice Molasses Cookies contains roughly 1327 calories, with 5g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 124g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1216mg per serving (53% 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 fat instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute butter or coconut oil for the shortening. If using butter, the cookies will have a richer flavor but may spread more during baking. Coconut oil will provide a subtle coconut flavor while keeping the cookies moist.
What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to handle, you can add a little extra flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Chilling the dough also helps firm it up, making it easier to shape into balls.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans would add a nice crunch to these cookies. You could also mix in chocolate chips or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture. Just be mindful not to overload the dough, as it may affect the cookies' structure.
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).