Super Soft Molasses Cookies

Old fashioned Super Soft Molasses Cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion. With rich flavors of molasses, ginger, and cinnamon in every bite, these cookies are soft and chewy inside, featuring a crackly sugar-coated exterior. Perfect for fall gatherings or holiday cookie swaps, this recipe ensures a heartwarming experience for family and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of molasses, ginger, and cinnamon creates a taste that’s both bold and comforting.
• Perfect Texture: These cookies are not just soft; they’re delightfully chewy with a satisfying crackle on top.
• Easy to Make: With simple instructions and common ingredients, you’ll have no trouble whipping up a batch.
• Versatile Treat: Ideal for various occasions like holidays, parties, or cozy nights at home.
• Make Ahead: The dough can be refrigerated, making it convenient to bake fresh cookies whenever you desire.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience seamless, gather the essential tools and equipment. Each tool plays a vital role in ensuring your cookies turn out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone mats
• Cookie scoop or spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or hand mixer: Helps achieve a well-blended mixture quickly, ensuring the perfect texture for your cookie dough.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining dry and wet ingredients without spilling.
• Baking sheets: Provide an even surface for baking cookies, allowing them to cook uniformly.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2 cups All-Purpose Flour
• 1/2 tsp Ground Cloves
• 1/2 tsp Ground Ginger
• 2 tsp Baking Soda
• 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp Salt
• 3/4 cup Vegetable Oil
• 1 cup Granulated Sugar (plus extra for rolling cookie dough balls in)
• 1/4 cup Full Flavor Molasses (I used the Brer Rabbit brand)
• 1 Large Egg (room temperature)

How to Make Super Soft Molasses Cookies

Step 1: Whisk the Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground cloves, ground ginger, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt in a mixing bowl. Set aside.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

Using your stand mixer or hand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment:
1. Beat the vegetable oil and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed until well blended.
2. Add in the full flavored molasses and egg. Mix until combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Switching the mixer speed to low:
1. Gradually add in the whisked dry ingredients until just combined.
2. Avoid overmixing to maintain softness.

Step 4: Chill the Dough

Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate the molasses cookie dough for at least 2 hours or until it’s easy to shape.

Step 5: Preheat Oven & Prepare Baking Sheets

Once the cookie dough has chilled:
1. Adjust your oven rack to the 2nd level position (just above center).
2. Preheat your oven to 375ºF.
3. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.

Step 6: Form Cookie Dough Balls

Using a spoon or a 1 tablespoon size cookie scoop:
1. Form 1 inch size cookie dough balls.
2. Roll each ball in granulated sugar before placing it on the lined baking sheet roughly 2 inches apart.

Step 7: Bake Cookies

Bake cookies for 8-10 minutes at 375ºF:
1. Remove from the oven once slightly puffy.
2. Let cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Store Your Cookies

Store your molasses cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They will remain soft and delicious!

How to Serve Super Soft Molasses Cookies

Super soft molasses cookies are a delightful treat that pairs well with various accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your cookie experience.

With a Glass of Milk

• A classic pairing, the creaminess of milk complements the rich flavors of molasses perfectly.

Served Warm

• Enjoy these cookies fresh from the oven for a melty, gooey texture that enhances their softness.

With Fresh Fruit

• Pairing these cookies with sliced apples or pears adds a refreshing contrast to the warm spices.

As Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Use two cookies to sandwich your favorite ice cream flavor for an indulgent dessert experience.

Alongside Hot Beverages

• Pair with hot tea or coffee to balance out the sweetness and enjoy a cozy treat during chilly days.

How to Perfect Super Soft Molasses Cookies

Creating the perfect super soft molasses cookies takes a bit of technique. Keep these tips in mind for fantastic results every time!

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to shape and ensuring a soft center after baking.

• Measure Flour Accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid dense cookies—too much flour can lead to dryness.

• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be puffy and set around the edges but still soft in the middle when you take them out.

• Use Fresh Spices: For bold flavors, ensure your ground spices are fresh. Spices lose potency over time, impacting taste.

Best Side Dishes for Super Soft Molasses Cookies

These super soft molasses cookies can be complemented by a variety of side dishes that enhance their deliciousness. Here are some great options:

1. Cream Cheese Frosting: A smooth and tangy frosting adds richness and pairs wonderfully with the spices in the cookies.

2. Spiced Apple Sauce: This warm, flavorful sauce brings a fruity note that complements molasses beautifully.

3. Cinnamon Sugar Pecans: Crunchy pecans coated in cinnamon sugar provide a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

4. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over cookies creates an indulgent treat perfect for special occasions.

5. Vanilla Yogurt: A dollop of creamy vanilla yogurt offers a refreshing balance to the sweet spices in each cookie.

6. Hot Chocolate: A rich cup of hot chocolate makes for a comforting pairing, enhancing the warm flavors of molasses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making super soft molasses cookies can be simple, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

• Incorrect Measurements: Using too much or too little flour can affect the texture of your cookies. Always measure accurately using measuring cups or a kitchen scale.

• Skipping Chilling Time: Not refrigerating the dough can lead to cookies that spread too much while baking. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 2 hours.

• Overmixing the Dough: Overmixing can result in tough cookies instead of soft ones. Mix just until the dry ingredients are combined with the wet ingredients.

• Inconsistent Cookie Sizes: Unevenly sized cookie dough balls can lead to unequal baking. Use a cookie scoop for uniform sizes and even baking.

• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven may cause your cookies to bake unevenly. Always preheat your oven before placing your cookies inside.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
• Keep the cookies at room temperature to maintain their softness.

Freezing Super Soft Molasses Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to three months. Layer parchment paper between layers if stacking.

Reheating Super Soft Molasses Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350ºF and warm for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat individual cookies for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Place them in a pan on low heat, covering with a lid for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about super soft molasses cookies that you might find helpful.

What makes Super Soft Molasses Cookies chewy?

The combination of vegetable oil and molasses provides moisture, helping achieve that delightful chewy texture.

Can I substitute ingredients in Super Soft Molasses Cookies?

Yes! You can swap all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for different flavors and textures.

How do I know when my Super Soft Molasses Cookies are done?

They will appear puffy and set but may still look slightly underbaked in the center. They will flatten as they cool.

How should I store Super Soft Molasses Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or freeze them for longer storage while maintaining their soft texture.

Final Thoughts

Super soft molasses cookies are not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations, these cookies can easily be customized with spices or add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Give this classic recipe a try, and enjoy the rich flavors and comforting aroma!