Ginger Molasses Cookies: A Cozy Treat for the Season

Introduction

Ginger Molasses Cookies are a delightful way to embrace the cozy flavors of the season. With their warm spices and chewy texture, these cookies are perfect for a comforting treat, whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening or celebrating with friends and family. Their rich molasses flavor and delightful spice make them a classic favorite during the holidays and beyond.

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 1 large egg
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Molasses and Egg: Beat in the molasses and egg until fully combined.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
6. Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and then roll each ball in granulated sugar. Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spaced about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. The centers should still be soft.
8. Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. The total preparation and baking time is about 30-35 minutes.

Variations

• Add-Ins: Incorporate 1/2 cup of chopped crystallized ginger or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Icing: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for a decorative touch.
• Spiced Up: Increase the amount of ground ginger or add a pinch of black pepper for an extra kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To enjoy cookies warm, microwave them for 10-15 seconds or reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use dark molasses instead of regular molasses? Yes, dark molasses will give a deeper flavor but will not significantly alter the texture.
2. Can I make these cookies ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the dough and freeze it. Scoop dough balls onto a baking sheet, freeze, then transfer to a zip-top bag and store. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 1-2 minutes to the baking time.
3. How can I make these cookies softer? Ensure you don’t overbake them; they should be soft in the center when you take them out of the oven.
4. Can I substitute margarine for butter? Yes, margarine can be used, but the flavor and texture might be slightly different.
5. How can I make the cookies more spicy? Increase the amount of ground ginger or cinnamon to suit your taste.
6. What should I do if my dough is too sticky? Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
7. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, but the cookies will be denser and have a more robust flavor.
8. Can I use a cookie scoop for this dough? Yes, a cookie scoop works well for portioning out the dough evenly.
9. Why are my cookies spreading too much? This could be due to warm dough or not enough flour. Chill the dough before baking to help with spreading.
10. How do I know when the cookies are done? The cookies are done when the edges are set and the tops are slightly cracked. The centers should still be soft.

Conclusion

Ginger Molasses Cookies are a quintessential fall treat that combines the warmth of ginger and molasses with a chewy, satisfying texture. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday gathering or enjoying them with a cup of tea, these cookies offer a comforting taste of the season. With their rich spice blend and simple preparation, they’re sure to become a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire. Enjoy these delightful cookies fresh from the oven or as a cozy snack throughout the week!

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