Save These cookies offer a delightful blend of warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves combined with the deep richness of molasses. The dough is soft and easy to handle, rolled in granulated sugar for a slight crunch. Baking yields tender cookies with a chewy center, ideal for enjoying during cozy afternoons or festive gatherings. Optional tweaks, like black pepper or whole wheat flour, enhance the flavor and texture to suit your preference.
I still remember the first time I made these spiced molasses cookies, the warm aroma filling my kitchen instantly made it feel like a cozy hug, perfect for chilly afternoons or holiday gatherings.
Once, when unexpected guests appeared on a snowy evening, I whipped up these cookies in no time and everyone swore they tasted like a festive miracle fresh from grandma's kitchen.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour: This is what gives the cookies their structure, and I like to gently spoon and level it to avoid a dense dough
- Ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, allspice: I love how these spices bring a warm complexity and I always freshen the ground ginger for the best kick
- Baking soda: It helps the cookies rise just enough without losing their chewy texture
- Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature so it creams beautifully, giving tenderness and richness
- Dark brown sugar: Packed tightly for that deep molasses flavor and moisture
- Unsulphured molasses: This ingredient is the heart of the recipe, adding that distinct sweet earthiness
- Large egg: Binds everything together and adds moisture
- Granulated sugar: For rolling, creating that delicate sugary shell that’s just right
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper so nothing sticks and cleanup is a breeze.
- Mix Dry Spices:
- Whisk together flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, allspice, baking soda, and salt. The air gets infused with spice notes that lift your spirits.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- Beat the softened butter and dark brown sugar until fluffy, about two minutes. The mixture lightens in color and smells sweet, making your anticipation grow.
- Add Molasses and Egg:
- Beat them in thoroughly to create a rich base, the molasses scent turning robust and inviting.
- Combine Dry and Wet:
- Gradually stir the dry ingredients in, stirring until a soft dough forms, velvety and just a bit sticky to the touch.
- Shape and Sugar Coat:
- Use a tablespoon to scoop dough, roll into balls, and coat each in granulated sugar for that sparkle and a little crunch on bake.
- Arrange for Baking:
- Place dough balls about 2 inches apart on your parchment-lined sheets to allow space for spreading.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Watch them bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the edges are set but centers remain soft, sending the kitchen into a warm, spicy haven.
- Cool Down:
- Let cookies cool on the sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to finish cooling, so they hold their shape and perfect tenderness.
Save This recipe soon became more than just cookies — it was a small celebration in every bite, the comfort of home captured, and a reason to gather those you love around the kitchen table.
Keeping It Fresh
I like to store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature where they stay wonderfully soft for up to a week, sometimes disappearing faster than expected.
Serving Ideas That Clicked
Pair these warm spiced cookies with a cup of chai tea or hot apple cider — the pairing feels like a hug and elevates simple cookie time into a cherished ritual.
A Time This Recipe Saved the Day
One hectic holiday season, when the oven in my apartment broke down, I still managed to whip up these cookies using a toaster oven and they turned out beautifully.
- Remember to roll the dough balls evenly so they bake uniformly
- If you’re running short on molasses, a mix of brown sugar and a little maple syrup works in a pinch
- These cookies freeze well—just thaw at room temperature for an easy treat later
Save Thanks for hanging out in the kitchen and sharing this cozy recipe with me. Can’t wait for you to enjoy these little moments of warmth in every bite.
