Grandma’s Irresistibly Soft Molasses Cookies

Introduction

There’s something magical about the comforting aroma of freshly baked molasses cookies wafting through the kitchen. I remember making these cookies with my grandma on rainy afternoons when the clouds would roll in, and we’d curl up by the fire with warm cookies and a cup of tea. Her molasses cookies were always the highlight of any family gathering. Soft, chewy, and bursting with the perfect balance of molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, these cookies never failed to bring a smile to everyone’s face. I’m so excited to share this cherished family recipe with you. It’s an easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or simply craving a comforting snack. These cookies will surely become a family favorite in your home, just as they have in mine.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
• ¼ cup full-flavor molasses
• 1 large egg (room temperature)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
   In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. Set the mixture aside. This blend of spices will bring out the warmth and depth of flavor in the cookies.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, combine the vegetable oil and granulated sugar. Mix until the ingredients are well incorporated and the sugar begins to dissolve slightly. Then, stir in the molasses and egg until the mixture is smooth and even.
3. Combine the Dry and Wet Ingredients:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing gently after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in tougher cookies. You want to keep the dough nice and soft.
4. Chill the Dough:
   Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. Chilling the dough allows the flavors to meld and makes the dough easier to handle, resulting in softer cookies.
5. Preheat the Oven:
   When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent the cookies from sticking.
6. Shape the Cookies:
   Scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar for a sparkling, sweet finish. This step not only adds sweetness but also gives the cookies a lovely appearance.
7. Bake:
   Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the cookies are set but still soft in the center. The cookies will flatten slightly as they cool, leaving them with a chewy texture.
8. Cool Down:
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will firm up as they cool, but they’ll remain soft and chewy.

Nutrition Facts (per cookie)

• Servings: 36 cookies
• Calories per cookie: 96
• Sugar: 13g
• Sodium: 65mg
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including chill time)

How to Serve

• With a cup of tea: These soft molasses cookies are the perfect accompaniment to a hot cup of tea or coffee. Their warmth and spice complement a cozy afternoon.
• As a snack: Enjoy these cookies as a simple, everyday treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. They make a great snack for both kids and adults alike.
• For a holiday gathering: These cookies are ideal for festive occasions. Their delightful spiced flavor and chewy texture make them a seasonal favorite.
• For a dessert platter: Serve these alongside other cookies and desserts on a dessert platter for an inviting spread that will be loved by all.
• With whipped cream: Top the cookies with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence, perfect for a holiday dessert or a special occasion.

Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the egg is at room temperature, as this helps the dough come together more smoothly.
2. Chill the Dough for Softness: Don’t skip the chilling step! It’s key to making these cookies soft and chewy. If you’re in a rush, you can chill the dough for a minimum of 30 minutes, but longer is better.
3. Be Careful Not to Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can result in tough cookies.
4. Adjust the Spices: Feel free to experiment with the spices. If you love cinnamon, add a bit more. If you like a spicier kick, try increasing the ginger.
5. Check for Doneness: Bake the cookies until they are set but still soft in the center. They’ll continue to cook slightly as they cool, so be careful not to overbake them.

Recipe Variations

• Sugar Swap: For a more natural option, substitute the granulated sugar with organic cane sugar. It adds a slight caramel flavor that complements the molasses.
• Molasses Variations: If you don’t have full-flavor molasses, light molasses or dark molasses will work just fine. Avoid blackstrap molasses, as it’s more bitter and not as sweet.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or increase the cinnamon for a warmer flavor. You can even add ground allspice or cardamom for extra complexity.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make these cookies gluten-free. Ensure that the flour blend you use is designed for baking.
• Add-ins: Try adding chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even candied ginger to the dough for a fun twist on the traditional molasses cookie.

Serving Suggestions

• With a hot beverage: These cookies are perfect with a hot beverage, whether it’s coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Their spice makes them ideal for sipping and snacking during the colder months.
• On a dessert table: These cookies are great for dessert tables during family gatherings or special occasions like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s.
• For gifting: Wrap a dozen of these cookies in a festive box and give them as a thoughtful gift to friends and family. They make a warm and delicious gift, especially during the holidays.
• With a milkshake: Serve these cookies alongside a rich milkshake for an extra indulgent treat. The chewy molasses cookies pair wonderfully with the creaminess of the shake.

Freezing and Storage

• Storing: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. They will stay soft and chewy for several days.
• Freezing: These cookies freeze wonderfully. Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 30 minutes. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To warm them up, simply microwave the cookies for 10-15 seconds or place them in the oven at 300°F for 5 minutes.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
   Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking.
2. Can I make these cookies without the molasses?
   Molasses is key to the flavor of these cookies, but you could try substituting it with dark corn syrup or honey for a slightly different taste.
3. Why do I need to chill the dough?
   Chilling the dough helps the cookies maintain their soft and chewy texture and prevents them from spreading too much during baking.
4. Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?
   Yes, a hand mixer works just as well for making the dough.
5. Can I double the recipe?
   Absolutely! Simply double all the ingredients to make a larger batch of cookies.
6. How can I make the cookies crispier?
   If you prefer crispier cookies, bake them a few minutes longer until they are golden brown around the edges.
7. Can I make these cookies dairy-free?
   Yes, you can substitute the vegetable oil with coconut oil and use dairy-free sour cream to make them dairy-free.
8. How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
   Be sure to chill the dough before baking and avoid overmixing to prevent excess spreading.
9. **What’s the best way to roll the dough

?**
Use your hands to gently roll the dough into 1-inch balls. You can also use a cookie scoop to ensure even-sized cookies.

10. Can I add frosting to these cookies?
    While these molasses cookies are delicious on their own, you could top them with a light glaze or cream cheese frosting for extra sweetness.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Irresistibly Soft Molasses Cookies are the perfect treat for cozy afternoons or holiday gatherings. Their soft and chewy texture, combined with the warm, spicy flavor of molasses and cinnamon, makes them a beloved classic. Whether you’re sharing them with family, gifting them to friends, or simply enjoying them with a hot beverage, these cookies are sure to bring comfort and joy to everyone who tastes them. Enjoy every bite, and happy baking!

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