Old-Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies – The Perfect Chewy Holiday Treat

There’s something truly special about Old-Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies. They’re like a warm, comforting hug wrapped up in chewy, flavorful goodness. The rich aroma of molasses mingling with spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves is enough to make your entire kitchen smell heavenly. These cookies are perfect for cozy afternoons with a steaming cup of tea or as part of your holiday baking traditions. They’re soft and slightly crisp around the edges, with that classic dark, sweet molasses flavor that feels both nostalgic and incredibly satisfying.

The beauty of these cookies is their simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples and some delightful spices, you can whip up a batch in no time. They’re also perfect for making ahead and freezing, so you can always have a sweet treat ready for unexpected guests or when you just need a little pick-me-up.

This recipe has been a favorite in my family for generations. I remember my grandmother making these cookies during the holidays, and the house would smell like pure magic. Now, I bake them whenever I’m in need of a little comfort, and they never fail to bring back warm memories. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen, too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Old-Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies are bound to become a favorite for several reasons:

• Incredibly Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginners can achieve perfect cookies every time.
• Rich, Warm Flavor: The combination of molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves creates a deep, cozy flavor profile that’s comforting and nostalgic.
• Perfectly Soft and Chewy: The texture is everything you want in a cookie—soft, moist, and just slightly crisp around the edges.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices to your liking or even add extras like chocolate chips, raisins, or chopped nuts for a fun twist.
• Ideal for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party, an afternoon snack, or just because you’re craving something sweet, these cookies always hit the spot.

These cookies aren’t just a treat; they’re an experience. The taste is deliciously rich, the aroma is inviting, and the satisfaction of making something so delightful from scratch is pure joy. Plus, they store well, so you can enjoy them for days to come.

Health Benefits

While these Old-Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies are undoubtedly a sweet indulgence, they also have a few surprising benefits worth mentioning:

• Molasses as a Nutrient Source: Unlike refined sugar, molasses retains some of the original nutrients from sugar cane, including iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. While it’s not a health food, it does offer a slight nutritional advantage over regular sugar.
• Spices for Wellness: The spices used in these cookies aren’t just for flavor. Ginger, cinnamon, and cloves have been praised for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Ginger, in particular, is known for its digestive benefits, while cinnamon may help support healthy blood sugar levels.
• Mental and Emotional Benefits: Let’s not forget the psychological benefits of baking and enjoying comfort foods. The act of baking can be soothing and therapeutic, promoting relaxation and creativity. Plus, sharing these cookies with loved ones can create joy and lasting memories.
• Moderation is Key: While these cookies are sweet treats, enjoying them in moderation as part of a balanced diet is perfectly fine. Pairing them with a protein-rich drink like milk can also help regulate blood sugar spikes.

So, while they’re definitely a delicious indulgence, they also offer a touch of nutrition and comfort that makes them a worthwhile treat.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes per batch
• Total Time: About 30 minutes
• Servings: Makes approximately 24 cookies

Nutritional Information (Per Cookie):

• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 1g
• Fat: 4g (Saturated Fat: 2.5g)
• Sodium: 80mg
• Sugar: 10g
• Cholesterol: 20mg

These numbers are approximate but should give you a good idea of what you’re working with. It’s a treat, yes, but it’s a treat worth every bite.

Ingredients List

To Make 24 Cookies, You’ll Need:

• Unsalted Butter: 1/2 cup, softened (adds richness and creates a tender texture)
• Granulated Sugar: 1 cup (provides sweetness and helps with structure)
• Molasses: 1/2 cup (the star ingredient, giving the cookies their signature flavor and color)
• Egg: 1 (helps bind the ingredients and adds moisture)
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 cups (the base of the cookie dough)
• Baking Soda: 2 teaspoons (acts as a leavening agent for lightness)
• Ground Ginger: 1 teaspoon (adds warmth and spice)
• Ground Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (brings a sweet, woody flavor)
• Ground Cloves: 1/2 teaspoon (provides depth and a hint of earthiness)
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (enhances all the other flavors)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Chocolate Chips: For an extra layer of sweetness.
• Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or pecans work wonderfully.
• Raisins: For added chewiness and sweetness.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Sheet

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.

Cream Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar.
• Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the mixture until it’s light and fluffy, which should take about 3–5 minutes.

Add Molasses and Egg

• Pour in the molasses and add the egg to the butter-sugar mixture.
• Beat until well combined. The mixture will look smooth and creamy with a lovely dark color from the molasses.

Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
• Make sure everything is evenly mixed to distribute the spices throughout the dough.

Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
• Stir until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep the cookies tender.

Shape the Dough

• Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls.
• Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Cookies

• Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes.
• The edges should be set, but the centers will still look slightly soft—this is what makes them chewy.

Cool the Cookies

• Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a couple of minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

How to Serve

Old-Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your experience with a few serving ideas:

• Warm and Fresh: Serve them slightly warm from the oven with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of tea.
• Holiday Delight: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk for a festive touch.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Pair two cookies with a scoop of vanilla or ginger ice cream between them.
• Cookie Platter: Include them in a holiday cookie platter with shortbread, sugar cookies, and chocolate chip cookies for variety.
• Gift-Worthy: Wrap them in decorative bags or tins for a delightful homemade gift.

These cookies are perfect for snacking, desserts, or gifting during the holiday season.

Pairing Suggestions

To enhance the flavors of your Old-Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies, try pairing them with:

• Hot Beverages: Coffee, chai tea, or hot cocoa complements their rich, spicy flavors.
• Cold Beverages: A glass of cold milk, almond milk, or vanilla-flavored milk makes for a classic pairing.
• Fruits: Serve with apple slices or pear wedges for a refreshing contrast.
• Spiced Ice Creams: Ginger, cinnamon, or vanilla ice cream creates a decadent dessert option.
• Breakfast Spread: Serve alongside muffins, banana bread, or scones for a cozy brunch treat.

These pairings bring out the best in the cookies’ warm, earthy flavors.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storing:

• Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing:

• To freeze the dough, roll it into balls and place them on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
• To freeze baked cookies, place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers.
• Both dough and baked cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Thaw frozen cookies at room temperature for 15–20 minutes.
• To enjoy them warm, pop them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5 minutes or microwave for 10–15 seconds.

Proper storage and reheating techniques ensure your cookies stay soft, chewy, and flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking: These cookies are meant to be soft. Remove them from the oven when the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underbaked.
• Not Chilling the Dough (Optional): If your kitchen is warm or if you want thicker cookies, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• Overmixing the Dough: Overworking the dough can lead to tough, dry cookies. Mix just until combined.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: For easy cleanup and even baking, always use parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
• Using Old Spices: Spices lose potency over time. Make sure your ginger, cinnamon, and cloves are fresh for the best flavor.

Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your cookies come out perfectly every time.

Pro Tips

• Enhance Flavor with Brown Sugar: Replace half of the granulated sugar with brown sugar for an even deeper, richer flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: If you love a spicy kick, increase the amount of ginger or add a pinch of nutmeg.
• Add Texture: For a bit of crunch, roll the dough balls in granulated sugar before baking.
• Make Them Ahead: Prepare the dough ahead of time and freeze it for quick, fresh-baked cookies whenever you want.
• Double the Batch: These cookies disappear quickly. Making a double batch is never a bad idea.

Following these tips will help you create cookies with amazing flavor and texture every single time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt to 1/4 teaspoon to prevent overly salty cookies.

Can I use blackstrap molasses?

You can, but it will produce a much stronger, slightly bitter flavor. Regular molasses is preferred for a milder, sweeter taste.

Why are my cookies hard and dry?

This usually happens from overbaking or overmixing the dough. Be gentle when combining ingredients and keep an eye on your baking time.

How can I make them gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the best results.

Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Absolutely! Roll the dough into balls, freeze them until firm, then store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 1–2 extra minutes to the baking time.

How do I make them extra soft?

Avoid overbaking, and consider adding an extra tablespoon of molasses or even a bit of sour cream for added moisture.

Can I add other ingredients to the dough?

Yes! Chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins can be added to the dough for additional flavor and texture.

Why do my cookies spread too much?

The dough may be too warm. Chilling the dough before baking can help control spreading.

Can I make these cookies dairy-free?

Yes, replace the butter with a dairy-free margarine or plant-based butter alternative.

What’s the best way to store them long-term?

Freezing is the best option if you want to keep them fresh for more than a week. Just remember to store them in an airtight container.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Old-Fashioned Soft Molasses Cookies are a timeless treat that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Their rich molasses flavor combined with warm spices makes them perfect for the holiday season or whenever you’re craving something sweet and nostalgic. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to make and adaptable to your personal taste.

Whether you’re baking them for family gatherings, gifting them to friends, or simply enjoying them with your favorite hot beverage, these cookies never disappoint. Plus, they freeze beautifully, so you can always have a stash ready for when the craving strikes.

I can’t wait to hear how these cookies turn out for you! Give them a try, and be sure to leave a comment letting me know how you liked them. And if you’re feeling creative, share any fun variations you come up with. Your baking adventure awaits—happy baking!

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