Gingerbread Molasses Cookies: 5 Simple Steps to Joy!

Gingerbread Molasses Cookies

By:

Julia marin

There’s something magical about the smell of Gingerbread Molasses Cookies wafting through the house during the holidays. It’s like a warm hug from the past, reminding me of baking sessions with my mom every December. We’d roll out the dough, cut out the shapes, and my favorite part? Decorating them with colorful icing and sprinkles! The joy of creating these cozy cookies is truly unmatched. Each bite delivers a soft, spiced flavor that feels like Christmas, making them the perfect treat for gatherings or cozy evenings at home.

Gingerbread Molasses Cookies - detail 1

Your friends and family will adore these Gingerbread Molasses Cookies. They’re not just cookies; they’re part of a tradition, a celebration of flavors that brings everyone together. Plus, they’re super easy to make, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen! Trust me, once you smell them baking, you’ll be transported to a winter wonderland, even if you’re just in your tiny apartment. So, let’s get started and make some memories with these delightful cookies that are sure to spread holiday cheer!

Ingredients for Gingerbread Molasses Cookies

  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour – This is the base of your cookies, giving them structure and that delightful chewy texture.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda – It helps the cookies rise and become nice and fluffy.
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger – This spice brings that signature ginger flavor that’s essential for gingerbread.
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon – A warm spice that adds depth and sweetness to the cookies.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves – This adds a hint of warmth and complexity that elevates the overall flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to balance the sweetness and enhance all the flavors.
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened – This is crucial for keeping your cookies soft and delicious, so let it sit out to reach room temperature.
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar – The moisture from the brown sugar helps keep the cookies soft, plus it adds a lovely caramel flavor.
  • 1/2 cup molasses – This is the star ingredient, bringing that deep sweetness and rich color to your cookies.
  • 1 large egg – This helps bind everything together and gives the cookies structure.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A splash of this adds a wonderful aroma and flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.

How to Prepare Gingerbread Molasses Cookies

Getting your Gingerbread Molasses Cookies ready is a fun and straightforward process! Just follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to delightful, spiced treats in no time.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, you need to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because starting with a hot oven helps the cookies bake evenly and get that nice, soft texture we love. So, go ahead and turn it on while you prepare your dough!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1 tablespoon of ground ginger, 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Whisk these together until they’re well blended. This helps avoid clumps, which can be a bit pesky in your cookies. If you see any lumps, just give them a little crush with the whisk – you want a nice, smooth mixture here!

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, beat together 3/4 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of packed brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This may take a minute or two; you want it to look light and fluffy! Then, add in 1/2 cup of molasses, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. The result should be a thick, smooth mixture – that’s the magic of the cookies starting to come together!

Step 4: Combine Mixtures

Now, it’s time to combine the dry and wet ingredients! Gradually add your dry mix into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few flour streaks are okay! This keeps the cookies from getting tough, and who wants tough cookies, right?

Step 5: Shape the Cookies

Using your hands, roll the dough into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, giving them some space (about 2 inches apart) to spread while baking. This will help them bake evenly and avoid sticking together.

Step 6: Bake the Cookies

Pop those cookies in the oven for about 8-10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are firm but the centers still look a little soft. They will firm up as they cool, so don’t worry if they seem a touch underbaked! Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. And there you have it! Your Gingerbread Molasses Cookies are ready to be enjoyed!

Tips for Success with Gingerbread Molasses Cookies

To make sure your Gingerbread Molasses Cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips!

  • Chill the Dough: If you find the dough too sticky, chill it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to handle and helps the cookies keep their shape while baking.
  • Use Parchment Paper: Lining your baking sheet with parchment paper not only makes cleanup a breeze but also prevents the cookies from sticking.
  • Store in an Airtight Container: Keep your cookies fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay soft and delicious for days!
  • Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies! They should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven. They will continue to firm up as they cool.
  • Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your taste. Adding a bit more ginger or cinnamon can give your cookies a fun twist!

Nutritional Information for Gingerbread Molasses Cookies

When it comes to enjoying your Gingerbread Molasses Cookies, it’s good to know what you’re munching on! Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these values are estimates.

Each cookie contains approximately:

  • Calories: 120
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g

So, go ahead and indulge a little! These cookies are not just delicious; they’re a delightful part of your holiday festivities!

FAQ About Gingerbread Molasses Cookies

Can I use a different type of flour?

Absolutely! While all-purpose flour is the go-to for these Gingerbread Molasses Cookies, you can experiment with other flours. For example, using whole wheat flour will give the cookies a nuttier flavor and a denser texture, but they might be a bit drier. If you’re gluten-free, a gluten-free all-purpose blend usually works well too. Just be sure to check the packaging for any specific instructions or adjustments needed.

How do I store leftover Gingerbread Molasses Cookies?

Storing your leftover cookies is super easy! Just place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh and soft for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. I always think the flavors deepen after a day or two, making them even more delicious!

Can I freeze the cookie dough?

You can definitely freeze the cookie dough! Just roll it into balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them for a couple of hours until solid, then transfer the frozen dough balls to a zip-top bag. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them into the oven straight from the freezer; you might need to add a minute or two to the baking time. This way, you can enjoy fresh-baked cookies anytime you crave them!

Why You’ll Love Gingerbread Molasses Cookies

  • Irresistible Flavor: The combination of warm spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves paired with rich molasses creates a delightful taste that perfectly embodies the holiday spirit.
  • Soft and Chewy Texture: These cookies are wonderfully soft, making them a comforting treat that melts in your mouth.
  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip up a batch with confidence!
  • Perfect for Decorating: The dough is great for cutting into shapes and decorating, making them a fun activity for family gatherings.
  • Festive Appeal: Their inviting aroma and beautiful appearance make these cookies a hit at any holiday gathering, bringing joy to your celebrations.
  • Great for Gifting: Pack them up in a pretty box or tin, and you’ve got a thoughtful homemade gift that friends and family will cherish.

Serving Suggestions for Gingerbread Molasses Cookies

When it comes to serving your Gingerbread Molasses Cookies, there are so many delightful ways to enjoy them! Try pairing them with a warm cup of spiced chai or hot cocoa for a cozy treat that’s perfect for chilly evenings. You can also serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert that’s sure to impress.

If you’re hosting a holiday gathering, arrange the cookies on a festive platter, maybe even dust some powdered sugar on top for a snowy effect. Add a few cinnamon sticks and star anise for a beautiful presentation that captures the holiday spirit. Your guests will be drawn to this tasty display, and trust me, they won’t be able to resist!

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Gingerbread Molasses Cookies

Gingerbread Molasses Cookies: 5 Simple Steps to Joy!


  • Author: Julia marin
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 24 cookies 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Gingerbread Molasses Cookies are soft, flavorful cookies perfect for the holidays.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 tablespoon ground ginger
  • 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup molasses
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until smooth.
  4. Add molasses, egg, and vanilla to the butter mixture and mix well.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
  6. Roll dough into balls and place them on a baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 8-10 minutes until edges are firm.
  8. Let cookies cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Notes

  • Chill the dough for 30 minutes for easier handling.
  • Use parchment paper for easy cleanup.
  • Store cookies in an airtight container for freshness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cookie
  • Calories: 120
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 50mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 15mg

Keywords: Gingerbread Molasses Cookies, holiday cookies, easy cookie recipe

About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.

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