Chewy Molasses Cookies

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Enjoy the warm, spicy flavor of these Chewy Molasses Cookies, perfect for any occasion.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-01T19:13:44.762Z

These Chewy Molasses Cookies are a family favorite that bring the warmth of spices and a delightful chewiness to your dessert table. Baked to perfection, they are ideal for sharing with friends or enjoying with a cup of tea.

Why You'll Love These Cookies

  • Warm, comforting spices that evoke nostalgia
  • Soft and chewy texture with a hint of sweetness
  • Perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday treats

The Magic of Molasses

Molasses is the star ingredient in these chewy cookies, lending them a rich, deep flavor profile that is both sweet and slightly bitter. This thick syrup, derived from sugarcane or sugar beets, is packed with essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. It not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the chewy texture that makes these cookies irresistible. As you bake, the molasses caramelizes, creating that signature warmth and depth that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

In addition to its delicious flavor, molasses is a natural humectant, meaning it helps retain moisture in baked goods. This is why these cookies stay soft and chewy even after a few days. The unique combination of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves adds a warming aroma that fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that is perfect for any occasion.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Chewy Molasses Cookies are incredibly versatile. Whether you're hosting a holiday gathering, a casual get-together, or just looking for a sweet treat to enjoy at home, these cookies fit the bill. Their nostalgic flavors remind many of childhood memories, making them a favorite among both young and old. You can even package them as gifts during the holiday season, spreading the joy of homemade cookies to friends and family.

Moreover, these cookies are easy to make and require minimal prep time. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. They are a great option for baking with kids, allowing them to get involved in the kitchen and share in the fun of creating something delicious.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

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

Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the molasses, sugar, and butter until smooth. Beat in the egg until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Form Cookies

Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your delicious Chewy Molasses Cookies with a glass of milk!

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Pro Tips

  • For an extra touch, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough before baking.

Storage Tips

To keep your Chewy Molasses Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, but you'll likely find they disappear much sooner! If you want to enjoy them for longer, consider freezing the cookies. Simply layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature or warm them briefly in the oven.

For an extra special treat, try warming the frozen cookies in the microwave for a few seconds before serving. The heat will revive their chewiness and bring back that fresh-baked taste, making them even more enjoyable.

Customization Ideas

While the classic Chewy Molasses Cookie is perfect as is, feel free to get creative! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to the dough for added texture and flavor. A sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking can also enhance the sweetness and create a delightful contrast. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of ground ginger or cinnamon according to your taste.

For a festive twist, consider drizzling a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cookies. This adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation, making them even more appealing for holiday gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?

Yes, using brown sugar will add a deeper flavor and moisture to the cookies.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cookie dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to three months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before baking.

→ What can I use instead of molasses?

You can substitute with honey or maple syrup, but the flavor will differ slightly.

Chewy Molasses Cookies

Enjoy the warm, spicy flavor of these Chewy Molasses Cookies, perfect for any occasion.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration10 minutes
Overall Time25 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 24 cookies

What You'll Need

For the Cookies

  1. 1 cup unsulfured molasses
  2. 1 cup granulated sugar
  3. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  4. 1 large egg
  5. 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  6. 1 teaspoon baking soda
  7. 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  8. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  9. 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  10. 1/4 teaspoon salt
  11. 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 02

In a large bowl, cream together the molasses, sugar, and butter until smooth. Beat in the egg until well combined.

Step 03

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.

Step 04

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.

Step 05

Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 06

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft.

Step 07

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Extra Tips

  1. For an extra touch, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough before baking.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 140 kcal
  • Total Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 20mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 1g