Short Description

Old-Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies are a nostalgic treat with a perfectly spiced, chewy texture. Rich molasses, warm spices, and a hint of sweetness make these cookies a comforting classic. Rolled in granulated sugar for a delicate crunch on the outside, these cookies are perfect for the holidays or anytime you crave a soft, spiced cookie.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft and chewy texture – perfect for molasses cookie lovers.
Warm, spiced flavor – cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg create a cozy taste.
Easy to make – simple ingredients and no chilling required.
Great for holidays – ideal for gifting or enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee.
Classic old-fashioned recipe – a timeless favorite for generations.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shortening
Light brown sugar, packed
Large egg
Molasses
All-purpose flour
Salt
Baking soda
Ground cinnamon
Ground ginger
Ground nutmeg
Granulated sugar (for rolling)

Directions

Prepare the Cookie Dough:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg and molasses, mixing until fully incorporated.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Shape and Roll:

Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Bake the Cookies:

Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set but still soft in the center.
Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Serve and Enjoy:

Enjoy warm or at room temperature with a cup of coffee, tea, or milk.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 24-30 cookies
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

Extra Spiced: Add ¼ teaspoon of cloves or allspice for a stronger spice flavor.
Butter Substitute: Swap shortening with butter for a slightly different texture.
Crispier Cookies: Bake for an extra 2 minutes for a firmer texture.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Maple Twist: Replace half the molasses with maple syrup for a milder flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Freezing Dough: Freeze unbaked dough balls (rolled in sugar) and bake directly from frozen, adding 2 extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

Can I use butter instead of shortening?

Yes, but the cookies may spread more and have a slightly different texture.

What type of molasses should I use?

Use unsulfured molasses for the best flavor. Avoid blackstrap molasses, as it is too bitter.

Why do I roll the cookies in sugar?

Rolling in granulated sugar adds a slight crunch and helps the cookies maintain their shape.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I keep the cookies soft?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to retain moisture.

Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?

Yes, mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips or chopped pecans for added texture.

How do I prevent the cookies from becoming too flat?

Ensure your baking soda is fresh and do not overmix the dough.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and bake in batches.

What is the best way to measure molasses?

Lightly grease the measuring cup before pouring molasses to prevent sticking.

Do these cookies taste like gingerbread?

They have a similar spiced flavor but are softer and chewier than traditional gingerbread cookies.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies are a timeless, spiced treat perfect for cozy evenings and holiday gatherings. With their chewy texture, rich molasses flavor, and warm spices, they are a classic cookie everyone will love. Make a batch today and enjoy the nostalgic taste of homemade goodness!