Molasses cookies are the epitome of comfort baking. Their rich, spiced flavor and chewy texture make them a favorite among home bakers, dessert enthusiasts, and cookie lovers alike. Whether you're making these for a holiday gathering or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea, this guide will walk you through each step to ensure your molasses cookies turn out perfectly every time.
Ingredients
To start, gather these high-quality, fresh ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup dark molasses
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional granulated sugar for rolling
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dough
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add Molasses and Egg:
Beat in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and uniform.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cookies tough.
Shaping the Cookies
- Chill the Dough:
Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking.
- Form the Cookies:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. Scoop out tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
Baking Instructions
- Bake the Cookies:
Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the tops are crackled. The centers may look slightly undercooked but will firm up as they cool.
Optional Add-Ins and Variations
- Chocolate Chips:
Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delicious twist.
- Nuts:
Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
- Spices:
Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom to make the flavor your own.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Cool and Store:
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Serving Suggestions:
These cookies are perfect with a glass of milk or a cup of hot tea. For an extra special treat, sandwich two cookies together with a layer of cream cheese frosting or vanilla ice cream.
Conclusion
And there you have it—perfectly spiced, irresistibly chewy molasses cookies ready to be enjoyed! We'd love to hear how your cookies turned out and any creative variations you tried. Share your experience and photos in the comments below or tag us on social media. Happy baking!
Post a Comment