Old Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, especially when it’s these Old Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies. With their rich, spicy flavor and irresistibly soft texture, these cookies are a timeless treat that brings warmth and comfort, perfect for cozy fall and winter days. Passed down from my mom, this recipe is a delightful piece of nostalgia that’s ideal for holiday gatherings or simply enjoying with a hot cup of tea.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These molasses cookies are a blend of chewy goodness and spicy warmth, making them a standout in any cookie selection. The use of Crisco gives them a unique, soft texture that’s hard to resist. Plus, they’re straightforward to make, so you can whip up a batch whenever the craving hits. Whether it’s for a holiday platter or a year-round snack, these cookies are sure to become a favorite.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Electric mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup shortening
• 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup molasses
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• Granulated sugar for rolling cookies

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and brown sugar using an electric mixer.
2. Beat in the egg and molasses until well blended.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
4. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture until fully combined.
5. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or until firm.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Roll the chilled dough into small balls about 3/4-inch in diameter.
8. Roll each ball in granulated sugar and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 1-2 inches between each cookie.
9. Bake for 8-12 minutes or until the cookies are set.
10. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Tips for Success

• Ensure the dough is well-chilled to make it easier to handle and shape.
• For uniform cookies, use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough.
• Don’t overbake; the cookies should be soft and slightly underdone when removed from the oven, as they will firm up as they cool.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of powdered sugar once cooled.
• Consider adding a pinch of cloves for an extra spicy kick.
• If you prefer butter to shortening, you can substitute it, but note that the texture may be slightly different.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 120

Fat: 5g

Carbohydrates: 18g

Sugars: 10g

Protein: 1g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I freeze the dough? Yes, you can freeze the cookie dough balls before baking. Just make sure to roll them in sugar right before baking.

How long will these cookies stay fresh? Stored in an airtight container, they will stay fresh for about a week.

Can I use blackstrap molasses? It’s best to use regular molasses as blackstrap can be too strong and bitter for this recipe.

Conclusion

These Old Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies are more than just a sweet treat; they’re a comforting reminder of simpler times. I invite you to try this recipe and experience the joy of baking—and eating—something truly special. Don’t forget to share your baking adventures and any personal twists you add to the recipe. Happy baking!