Old Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies

Old Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, or as a sweet snack any time of day.

Why Make Old Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies

These cookies are a timeless classic, beloved for their rich molasses flavor and soft texture. Baking a batch of these cookies is a wonderful way to fill your home with the aroma of warm spices and homemade goodness. Plus, they’re simple to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

How to Make Old Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies

1. In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the shortening and sugar until smooth. Beat in the egg and molasses until the mixture is well combined.
2. In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Stir this mixture into the creamed mixture until thoroughly blended. Chill the dough for at least an hour, or until it becomes firm.
3. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
4. Roll the chilled dough into small balls, each about 3/4-inch in diameter. Roll each ball in granulated sugar and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
5. Bake the cookies for 8-12 minutes or until they are set. Allow them to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 2 minutes, then transfer them to the rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these Old Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies warm or at room temperature. They pair perfectly with a glass of milk or a hot beverage of your choice. These cookies are also delicious when sandwiched together with a dollop of creamy frosting or enjoyed alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage Info

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze the cookies for longer storage. Simply place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to three months. Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature before serving.

Some Techniques or Tips

• For extra soft and chewy cookies, slightly underbake them and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, increase the amount of ground ginger or cinnamon in the recipe.
• Don’t skip the step of chilling the dough, as it helps the cookies retain their shape and prevents them from spreading too much during baking.

Variation

For a festive twist, add a sprinkle of coarse sugar or colored sprinkles on top of the cookies before baking. You can also fold in a handful of chopped nuts or raisins into the dough for added texture and flavor.

FAQs about Old Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies

1. Can I substitute butter for shortening in this recipe?
   • Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of butter for the shortening if desired. However, keep in mind that the texture of the cookies may be slightly different.
2. Can I use blackstrap molasses instead of regular molasses?
   • While you can use blackstrap molasses, keep in mind that it has a stronger and more bitter flavor compared to regular molasses. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
3. Can I freeze the cookie dough instead of baking it right away?
   • Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough for later use. Shape the dough into balls, roll them in sugar, and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze the balls until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to bake, simply place the frozen dough balls on a baking sheet and bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

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