Save to Pinterest Deeply spiced, irresistibly soft molasses cookies with a chewy center perfect for holiday baking and simple to make without a mixer.
I love making these molasses cookies every holiday season it fills the kitchen with warm spices and brings back fond memories.
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Ingredients
- Dry Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups (280 g) all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons ground ginger, 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 2 teaspoons baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Wet Ingredients: 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter melted and slightly cooled, 1 cup (200 g) packed dark brown sugar, 1/4 cup (60 ml) unsulphured molasses, 1 large egg at room temperature, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- For Rolling: 1/3 cup (65 g) granulated sugar
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Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- In a medium bowl whisk together flour ginger cinnamon cloves nutmeg baking soda and salt.
- Step 3:
- In a large bowl whisk together melted butter brown sugar and molasses until smooth Add egg and vanilla whisk until fully incorporated.
- Step 4:
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet folding with a spatula until just combined Do not overmix.
- Step 5:
- Scoop dough by rounded tablespoons roll each ball in granulated sugar and place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
- Step 6:
- Bake for 9 11 minutes until cookies are puffed and edges are set but centers are still soft.
- Step 7:
- Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely for ultimate gooeyness.
Save to Pinterest Baking these cookies with my kids is one of my favorite family traditions especially smelling the spices fill the air.
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Additional Tips
For extra spice add a pinch of black pepper or roll the cookies in coarse sparkling sugar for a festive touch.
Required Tools
Mixing bowls whisk spatula baking sheets parchment paper cookie scoop or tablespoon wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten) egg and dairy (butter) Always check labels for cross-contamination if you have allergies.
Save to Pinterest 
Enjoy these soft molasses cookies fresh from the oven or store them properly for days of holiday delight.
Recipe FAQs
- → What spices give these cookies their warm flavor?
Ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg combine to create a rich, warm spice profile that defines their taste.
- → How can I keep the cookies soft after baking?
Allow cookies to cool completely on wire racks and store in an airtight container to maintain their soft, chewy texture.
- → Is a mixer necessary to prepare the dough?
No mixer is required; whisking by hand is sufficient to blend wet and dry ingredients for a tender dough.
- → What role does molasses play in these treats?
Molasses adds moisture, sweetness, and a distinctive deep flavor that enhances the warmth of the spices.
- → Can I add extra spice to the dough?
Yes, a pinch of black pepper can be added for subtle heat, complementing the existing warm spices.
- → How long should I bake these treats for perfect texture?
Bake for 9–11 minutes until edges are set and cookie centers remain soft, ensuring a gooey middle.
