Molasses Spice Cookies -

Molasses spice cookies are a nostalgic treat that bring back the warmth of old-fashioned baking. These chewy delights are infused with rich molasses and a blend of warm spices, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying them with a hot cup of tea or serving them during the holiday season, these cookies are sure to impress.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This molasses spice cookie recipe combines classic flavors that evoke comfort and nostalgia. Molasses adds not only sweetness but also depth and richness to the cookies, while the spices—cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg—bring warmth to every bite. They’re simple to make, require minimal ingredients, and yield a delightful chewy texture that is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Pro Tips for Making Molasses Spice Cookies

To ensure that your cookies turn out perfectly every time, follow these tips:

Chill the dough for at least one hour. This helps the flavors meld and the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
Use fresh spices. Old spices can lose their potency, so make sure your cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg are fresh for maximum flavor.
Don’t overbake. Cookies should be taken out of the oven while they look slightly underbaked. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Experiment with the sugar coating. Try using different types of sugar—like brown sugar—for a richer flavor when rolling the dough balls.
Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain their chewy texture for days.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for your molasses spice cookies:

1 cup shortening
1 cup brown sugar
1 egg

1 cup molasses
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt

2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger

1 tsp ground nutmeg
Sugar for rolling

Directions

Follow these simple steps to create your molasses spice cookies:

Step 1: Cream the shortening and brown sugar together in a mixing bowl until fluffy.
Step 2: Add the egg and molasses to the mixture, and mix well until fully incorporated.
Step 3: In a separate bowl, combine all the dry ingredients: flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.

Step 4: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the molasses mixture, combining until just blended.
Step 5: Chill the dough for at least 1 hour to firm up the mixture and enhance the flavors.
Step 6: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 7: Roll the chilled dough into small balls, then coat each ball in sugar.
Step 8: Place the sugar-coated balls on the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 12 minutes, or until the edges are set.

Step 10: Allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I substitute the shortening in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute shortening with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile and texture.

2. How long do these cookies last?

When stored in an airtight container, molasses spice cookies can last up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed bag for up to three months.

3. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, or chocolate chips for an additional layer of flavor.

4. What can I use instead of molasses?

If you don’t have molasses, you can substitute it with dark brown sugar mixed with a small amount of honey for a similar sweetness and flavor.

5. Are these cookies suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the dough before baking or freeze baked cookies. Just ensure they are properly wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

Molasses spice cookies are a delightful throwback to cozy times, enriched with aromatic spices that warm the heart. This straightforward recipe will yield soft, chewy cookies that you and your loved ones will treasure. Perfect for holidays or any time you crave a little sweetness, these cookies are a must-try for any baking enthusiast. Enjoy the taste of nostalgia with each delicious bite!