Chewy Molasses Cookies

Name: Chewy Molasses Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 3/4 cup unsulfured molasses; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1 egg; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1/2 tsp ground cloves; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 cup sugar for rolling

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipes

Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of these chewy molasses cookies, perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-01T19:37:43.875Z

These chewy molasses cookies are a family favorite, bringing warmth and joy to every bite. Perfectly spiced and delightfully chewy, they make a great treat for holidays or any day!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and warm spices that evoke the comfort of home
Perfectly chewy texture that keeps you coming back for more
Simple ingredients that create a big impact on flavor

      

The Magic of Molasses

Molasses is the star ingredient in these chewy cookies, providing a depth of flavor that is hard to resist. This thick, dark syrup is a byproduct of sugar production and is packed with vitamins and minerals. Its rich, sweet taste is complemented by the warm spices added to the cookie dough, making each bite a delightful experience. The unique flavor of molasses also contributes to the cookies' chewy texture, setting them apart from traditional sugar cookies.

Beyond its flavor, molasses has a fascinating history. Once a staple in many households, it was often used in baking and cooking long before refined sugars became widely available. Today, it’s cherished for its ability to elevate both sweet and savory dishes. Incorporating molasses into your baking not only enhances the taste but also pays homage to traditional culinary practices.

Perfectly Chewy Texture

Achieving the perfect chewy texture is a hallmark of a great molasses cookie. The combination of ingredients in this recipe, particularly the molasses and sugar, works in harmony to create that satisfying bite. When baked, the cookies develop a slight crispness on the outside while remaining soft and chewy on the inside. This balance makes them a favorite among cookie lovers, as they provide a delightful contrast in texture.

To ensure your cookies maintain their chewy quality, be mindful not to overbake them. The goal is to achieve a set edge while keeping the center soft. This will allow them to continue cooking slightly even after being removed from the oven, resulting in that perfect chewy consistency that keeps you coming back for more.

Baking Tips for Success

Baking these molasses cookies can be a simple and rewarding endeavor, but a few tips can help you achieve the best results. First, make sure to accurately measure your ingredients, as baking is a science that requires precision. Using a kitchen scale can help you achieve the right measurements, especially for flour and sugar. Additionally, chilling the dough is crucial; it helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring they maintain their shape.

Another helpful tip is to use parchment paper on your baking sheet. This not only prevents sticking but also promotes even baking. If you want to experiment with flavors, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the dough for an extra twist. These small adjustments can elevate your cookies and make them uniquely yours.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious chewy molasses cookies.

Ingredients

3/4 cup unsulfured molasses
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 egg
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 cup sugar for rolling

Make sure to measure your ingredients carefully for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your chewy molasses cookies to perfection.

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, mix together the molasses, sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined. Beat in the egg until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.

Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Form Cookies

Once chilled, scoop tablespoon-sized amounts of dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing on the baking sheet.

Bake

Bake for 10 minutes or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Enjoy your freshly baked chewy molasses cookies with a glass of milk!

Storing Your Cookies

Once your chewy molasses cookies are baked and cooled, it's essential to store them properly to maintain their soft texture and flavor. Place them in an airtight container at room temperature, and they will stay fresh for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Layer the cookies between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container to prevent sticking, and they can last for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen cookies, simply let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes. If you prefer a warm treat, you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their freshly baked taste.

Serving Suggestions

These chewy molasses cookies are delightful on their own, but they can also be paired with various accompaniments for an enhanced experience. Consider serving them with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea or coffee. The rich flavors of the cookies complement the warmth of a cozy beverage, making them perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings with friends and family.

For a festive touch, try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent treat. This cookie sandwich is sure to impress at parties or holiday celebrations, combining the warmth of the molasses cookie with the creaminess of ice cream.

Variations to Try

While this recipe for chewy molasses cookies is already a classic, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste. For a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of black pepper to the dough. This subtle heat can elevate the flavor profile and create a unique twist on the traditional cookie.

You can also experiment with different types of sugar for rolling. Try using brown sugar or even a mixture of granulated and powdered sugar for a different texture and flavor. No matter how you choose to personalize your cookies, the base recipe remains delicious and versatile, making it a great canvas for your creativity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use honey instead of molasses?

Yes, but it will alter the flavor and texture slightly. Molasses gives a distinct taste that honey won't replicate.

→ How do I store leftover cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Why are my cookies not chewy?

Ensure you don’t overbake them. They should come out soft and will continue to firm up as they cool.