Introduction
Soft Molasses Cookies are more than just a treat; they’re a warm hug in cookie form, evoking comforting memories of holidays and family gatherings. Their distinct aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves mingling with the rich, deep sweetness of molasses is simply irresistible. This recipe promises perfectly chewy centers and subtly crisp edges, coated in a delightful sparkle of granulated sugar. We’ll guide you through creating these iconic cookies, a cherished addition to your baking repertoire, perfect for sharing or savoring.
Ingredients
To embark on this delightful baking journey, gather these essential components. You’ll need 2 ½ cups (300g) all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons baking soda, and 1 ½ teaspoons ground ginger for that characteristic warmth. Add 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground cloves, and ½ teaspoon salt to round out the spice profile. For the wet ingredients, have 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened, 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar, and 1 large egg ready. The star, of course, is ½ cup (120ml) unsulphured dark molasses, essential for flavor and moisture. Finally, an extra ¼ cup granulated sugar for rolling, providing that beautiful signature sparkle.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated, then slowly add the molasses, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix. Place the remaining ¼ cup granulated sugar in a shallow dish. Scoop dough by the tablespoon, roll into balls, and then roll each ball in the granulated sugar until evenly coated. Arrange the sugared dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers still look soft. They will firm up as they cool. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Expert Tips
For truly soft molasses cookies, don’t overbake them. They should still look slightly underdone in the center when you pull them from the oven; residual heat will finish the baking process. Using unsulphured dark molasses is crucial for that authentic, deep flavor; avoid blackstrap molasses, which can be too bitter. Ensure your butter is properly softened but not melted, as this affects the cookie’s texture. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before rolling can make it easier to handle, especially in warmer kitchens, resulting in less spread and chewier cookies. Measure your flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and then leveling it off, rather than scooping directly, to prevent a dense, dry cookie.
Variations
While these classic molasses cookies are perfect as is, feel free to experiment. For a zesty twist, add 1 teaspoon of orange zest to the dough, brightening the spices beautifully. If you love a little extra kick, incorporate ½ teaspoon of finely ground black pepper into the spice mixture for a subtle warmth. You can also mix in ½ cup of finely chopped crystallized ginger for bursts of chewy, spicy sweetness. For a different texture, try rolling the dough balls in turbinado sugar instead of granulated sugar for a coarser, crunchier exterior. A light drizzle of a simple powdered sugar glaze after cooling adds an elegant touch and extra sweetness.
Conclusion
There’s something uniquely satisfying about a batch of homemade Soft Molasses Cookies. Their comforting aroma fills the kitchen, promising a delightful treat that perfectly balances spicy warmth with deep, sweet molasses. This recipe provides a straightforward path to achieving cookies that are wonderfully soft, richly flavored, and beautifully spiced, a true testament to timeless baking. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion, a cozy evening at home, or simply to fill your cookie jar, these will undoubtedly bring smiles and warmth to all who taste them. Happy baking!