Susan'S Molasses Cookies
Soft, spiced molasses cookies with warm ginger, cloves, and cinnamon, perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons with a classic, comforting flavor profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the shortening and allow it to cool.
- Once cooled, add the sugar, molasses, and egg to the melted shortening and mix well.
- Sift together the flour, ground cloves, ginger, cinnamon, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until combined.
- Chill the dough until it becomes stiff before shaping and baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown sugar instead of white sugar, as it enhances the molasses taste. If you're out of shortening, unsalted butter can be a great substitute, though it may alter the texture slightly. Allow the dough to chill longer for easier shaping. If you prefer a spicier cookie, increase the ginger and cloves to taste. These cookies can also be rolled in sugar before baking for added sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
These molasses cookies are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea. For an extra touch, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert. They also make a charming accompaniment to holiday gatherings or cookie platters, complementing other treats like Bev'S Oatmeal Patties or Cookie Cut Outs.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months. To reheat, microwave for a few seconds or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes until slightly crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Susan'S Molasses Cookies contains roughly 713 calories, with 5g protein, 144g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (46% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and calcium (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1290mg per serving (56% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may result in denser cookies. To maintain a lighter texture, consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour. This way, you get the health benefits of whole grains without compromising too much on the traditional cookie texture.
What if I don't have molasses?
If you don't have molasses, you can use honey or maple syrup as a substitute, though the flavor will be different. For a similar texture, mix brown sugar with a small amount of water to mimic the consistency of molasses. Keep in mind that this may alter the final taste, so adjust spices accordingly to compensate.
Can I add chocolate chips to this cookie recipe?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can create a delicious twist on traditional molasses cookies. Use semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips, and fold them into the dough just before chilling. This addition will provide a sweet contrast to the spices and molasses, making for a delightful cookie variation.
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).