These Molasses Cookies are soft, chewy, warmly spiced, and coated in sparkling sugar. With rich molasses flavor and cozy notes of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, they're the perfect cookie for fall and holiday baking.
If you love gingerbread cookies but want something softer and chewier, these molasses cookies are for you.
The Origins of Molasses Cookies
Molasses cookies date back to Colonial America, when molasses was more affordable and widely available than refined sugar. Early American bakers used molasses to sweeten cakes, breads, and cookies, creating rich desserts that became staples in households throughout New England and the South.
Over time, molasses cookies became a holiday favorite thanks to their warm spice flavors and soft texture.
Today, they remain one of the most beloved old-fashioned cookie recipes in America.
Why You'll Love These Cookies
- Soft and chewy centers
- Rich molasses flavor
- Warm holiday spices
- Easy to make
- Perfect for Christmas cookie trays
Ingredients
Cookie Dough
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon cloves
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup molasses
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For Rolling
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
Instructions
Step 1
Preheat oven to 350°F.
Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2
Whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Ginger
- Cinnamon
- Cloves
Step 3
Beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy.
Add:
- Egg
- Molasses
- Vanilla
Mix until smooth.
Step 4
Gradually add dry ingredients.
Mix until dough forms.
Step 5
Roll dough into 1½-inch balls.
Roll in granulated sugar.
Step 6
Place on baking sheets.
Bake for 9-11 minutes.
The centers should remain soft.
Step 7
Allow cookies to cool before serving.
What to Serve With Molasses Cookies
- Coffee
- Chai Tea
- Hot Chocolate
- Eggnog
- Warm Apple Cider
Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
More Holiday Cookies You'll Love
- Gingerbread Cookies
- Snowball Cookies
- Linzer Cookies
- Shortbread Cookies
- Christmas Sugar Cookies
- Peanut Butter Blossoms
- Thumbprint Cookies
- Chocolate Crinkle Cookies
Final Thoughts
These Molasses Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with warm spice flavor. They're an old-fashioned holiday favorite that deserves a place on every Christmas cookie tray.