Old-Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies

Introduction

These Old-Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies are the kind of treat that instantly transports you back to cozy afternoons in the kitchen. The warm, inviting aroma of spices wafting through the house is simply irresistible, and they are always a hit with family and friends. Every bite is a delightful combination of chewy texture and rich flavor, making them perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual snacking. My family loves them, and I find that they disappear quickly, leaving everyone craving more!

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 1 egg
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add Molasses and Egg: Add the molasses and the egg to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until well combined. The molasses will give the cookies their signature flavor and color.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. This ensures that the baking soda and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the texture of the cookies.
6. Shape and Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie to allow for spreading. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers remain soft.
7. Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 24 cookies
• Calories: 120 per cookie
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 80mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1.5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm, straight from the oven, for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
• Pair with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• For an added touch, dust with powdered sugar before serving.

Additional Tips

1. Chill the Dough: If you prefer a thicker cookie, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes before baking.
2. Spice It Up: Adjust the spices according to your preference. Adding a bit more ginger or cinnamon can enhance the flavor.
3. Check for Doneness: Since oven temperatures vary, keep an eye on the cookies towards the end of the baking time. They should look slightly underbaked in the center.
4. Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain softness for several days.
5. Experiment: Try adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips for a different twist on the classic recipe.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Vegan: Replace the butter with vegan butter and the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water).
• Additional Flavors: Incorporate citrus zest or a splash of vanilla extract for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Enjoy as a delightful dessert after dinner.
• Use as a base for an ice cream sandwich by placing a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies.
• Perfect for holiday cookie platters alongside other festive treats.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just scoop the dough onto a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
• Baked Cookies: Store baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze cookies for up to 3 months.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use dark molasses instead of light?
   Yes, dark molasses will give a richer flavor but may alter the color slightly.
2. What if I don’t have all the spices?
   You can use a pre-made gingerbread spice mix as a substitute.
3. How do I know when the cookies are done?
   The edges should be set and the center should look slightly soft. They will firm up as they cool.
4. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it or freeze it until you’re ready to bake.
5. How can I make these cookies more chewy?
   Reduce the baking time slightly or add an extra tablespoon of molasses.
6. What can I do with leftover cookies?
   Crumble them over ice cream or yogurt for a delicious topping.
7. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled.
8. What should I do if my dough is too dry?
   Add a tablespoon of warm water or more molasses to help hydrate the dough.
9. Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?
   Unsalted butter allows you to control the salt content in the recipe.
10. How do I store leftover dough?
    Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies are a classic treat that never goes out of style. Their rich flavors, soft texture, and delightful spices make them a must-try for any cookie lover. Whether you enjoy them on their own or dressed up with ice cream, they are sure to bring comfort and joy to any gathering. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bake up a batch of these delightful cookies that your family will cherish for years to come!

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