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Soft Molasses Cookies

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Soft molasses cookies infused with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and a hint of black pepper, delivering a chewy texture and rich flavor perfect for cozy moments and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 1/4 cups (280 g) all-purpose flour, sifted
  • 2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 3/4 cup (170 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (50 g) packed brown sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup (113 g) molasses (unsulfured blackstrap recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Optional: coarse sugar for rolling

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats.
  2. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, black pepper, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar using an electric mixer or wooden spoon until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  4. Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in batches, stirring gently until no streaks of flour remain. Do not overmix.
  6. Optional: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and chill for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and texture.
  7. Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, form dough balls about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Roll each ball lightly in coarse sugar if desired, and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
  8. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, watching closely. Edges should be set while centers remain slightly soft for a chewy texture.
  9. Cool the cookies on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes helps the spices bloom and prevents excessive spreading. Use room temperature eggs and softened butter for better texture. Watch baking time closely to keep cookies soft and chewy. Rolling dough balls in coarse sugar adds a nice crunch and sparkle. Store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain softness. Dough can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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