Ginger Molasses Cookies

Introduction

Ginger Molasses Cookies are a beloved classic that bring together the perfect balance of sweet, spicy, and rich flavors. With their soft, chewy centers and slightly crisp edges, these cookies are the ultimate comfort treat. The deep, earthy sweetness of molasses pairs beautifully with the warmth of ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, creating a cookie that feels both nostalgic and festive.

Every bite delivers that cozy “holiday in your mouth” sensation, but they’re delicious enough to enjoy all year round. Whether served with a hot cup of tea on a rainy day or gifted in a jar during the holiday season, Ginger Molasses Cookies never fail to delight. Their crackly, sugar-coated tops not only make them look stunning but also add a little crunch to every bite.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it brings together everything I adore in a cookie — warmth, spice, and comfort in every bite. The chewy texture paired with that delicate sugary crunch on top makes them irresistible. Each cookie feels like a little reminder of cozy winter evenings, where the aroma of ginger and cinnamon fills the kitchen and instantly lifts the mood.

Another reason I love these cookies is how versatile they are. They’re perfect for the holiday season, yet simple enough to enjoy on an ordinary afternoon with a hot cup of tea or coffee. They also make wonderful homemade gifts, and I’ve seen how just a small batch can brighten someone’s day.

Why It’s a Must-Try

Ginger Molasses Cookies are a must-try because they’re the perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. Unlike fancy desserts that take hours to prepare, these cookies come together quickly yet taste as if they came straight from a bakery. The warm spices make them especially comforting, while the molasses adds depth and richness that set them apart from ordinary cookies.

They’re also incredibly versatile — equally suited for a holiday cookie platter, a casual afternoon snack, or a thoughtful homemade gift. Their crinkly sugar-dusted tops make them look festive without requiring any elaborate decoration, so you get beauty and flavor in one easy recipe.

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: American
• Course: Dessert / Snack / Tea-time treat
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Chill Time (Optional, for better flavor): 30 minutes
• Baking Time: 10–12 minutes per batch
• Total Time: About 1 hour (including chilling and baking multiple trays)
• Servings: 24–28 cookies
• Calories: ~120 per cookie (may vary with size and sugar coating)

Ingredients

• 2 ¼ cups (280g) all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg (optional, for extra warmth)
• 2 tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ¾ cup (170g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) brown sugar (light or dark)
• 1 large egg
• ¼ cup (80ml) unsulphured molasses
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• ¼ cup granulated sugar (for rolling cookies)

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Mix dry ingredients (flour, spices, baking soda, salt).
2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add egg, molasses, and vanilla.
3. Combine wet and dry ingredients until a dough forms.
4. Chill dough (optional, but enhances flavor).
5. Roll into balls, coat in sugar, and place on baking sheet.
6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.
7. Cool slightly and enjoy warm or store for later.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Preheat Oven: Set to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Mix in egg, molasses, and vanilla until smooth.
5. Combine: Gradually add dry mixture to wet mixture until a soft dough forms.
6. Chill Dough (Optional): Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes for easier handling.
7. Shape Cookies: Scoop dough (about 1 tablespoon each), roll into balls, and coat in granulated sugar.
8. Bake: Place 2 inches apart on baking sheet. Bake 10–12 minutes until edges are set and tops crackle.
9. Cool: Let cool 5 minutes on the sheet before transferring to a wire rack.

How to Serve

• Serve slightly warm with tea, coffee, or milk.
• Stack them in a jar tied with ribbon for gifting.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert.

Additional Tips

• Don’t overbake — they should stay soft in the center.
• Dark molasses gives a deeper flavor; avoid blackstrap molasses (too bitter).
• Rolling in coarse sugar gives a nice sparkle.
• For even-sized cookies, use a cookie scoop.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or black pepper.
• Glazed: Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze.
• Stuffed: Wrap dough around a piece of caramel or chocolate.
• Whole Wheat: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.

Freezing & Storage

• Room Temp: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer (Baked): Freeze baked cookies up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp.
• Freezer (Dough): Freeze dough balls for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen (add 1–2 minutes).

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowls
• Hand or stand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Wire cooling rack

Conclusion

Ginger Molasses Cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a comforting bite of nostalgia and warmth. With their soft centers, bold spices, and sugar-dusted tops, they’re ideal for holidays, cozy evenings, or anytime you want something special. Easy to prepare, customizable, and freezer-friendly — this is a recipe worth keeping in your collection.