Old Fashioned Christmas Molasses Cookies

What kind of recipe is it?

Old Fashioned Christmas Molasses Cookies are a classic holiday treat that combines deep, rich flavors with a soft and chewy texture.

These cookies are characterized by their warm spices, including ginger and cinnamon, and a hint of sweetness from molasses, making them a delightful addition to festive gatherings.

Ideal for families and bakers of all skill levels, this recipe is perfect for creating heartwarming memories during the holiday season, while also providing a nostalgic taste that harks back to simpler times.

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Ingredients

Below is a detailed table of the ingredients needed for the Old Fashioned Christmas Molasses Cookies, along with their respective quantities.

Ingredient	Quantity
All-purpose flour	2 ½ cups
Baking soda	1 teaspoon
Ground ginger	2 teaspoons
Ground cinnamon	1 teaspoon
Ground cloves	½ teaspoon
Salt	½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter	¾ cup (1 ½ sticks)
Granulated sugar	1 cup
Brown sugar	1 cup, packed
Molasses	½ cup
Egg	1 large
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Granulated sugar (for rolling)	½ cup

These ingredients come together to create the warm, spicy, and sweet flavor profile that makes these cookies a holiday favorite!

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Cooking Steps

Preheat the oven to 175 °C (350 °F) and position the rack in the center of the oven. Line two baking sheets (approximately 40 x 30 cm or 16 x 12 inches) with parchment paper.
In a medium mixing bowl, sift together 2 ½ cups (312 g) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 2 teaspoons ground ginger, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon ground cloves, and ½ teaspoon salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, with an electric mixer on medium speed, cream together ¾ cup (170 g) of unsalted butter and 1 cup (200 g) of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add 1 cup (packed, 220 g) of brown sugar, ½ cup (120 ml) of molasses, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing until fully incorporated and smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Don’t overmix; the dough should be slightly sticky.
Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up, making it easier to handle.
After chilling, scoop out rounded tablespoons of dough and roll them into balls. Roll each ball in ½ cup (100 g) of granulated sugar to coat evenly.
Place the coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart.
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. The cookies should spread out slightly and look set around the edges but still soft in the center. They should have a rich brown color and a fragrant aroma.
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes. This will help them set further.
Transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely. They should feel slightly firm on the outside yet soft in the center.
Once cooled, store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can also be frozen for up to three months for later enjoyment.

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Variations

Gluten-Free Molasses Cookies: Substitute 2 ½ cups (312 g) of all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for a gluten-free option.
Vegan Molasses Cookies: Replace the ¾ cup (170 g) of unsalted butter with ¾ cup (170 g) of coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute, and swap the egg for ¼ cup (60 ml) of unsweetened applesauce.
Cranberry-Orange Molasses Cookies: Add 1 cup (150 g) of dried cranberries and 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of orange zest to the dough for a festive, fruity twist.
Molasses Nut Cookies: Incorporate 1 cup (100 g) of chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) to add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the cookies.

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Tips on plating and presentation

After enjoying the delightful variations of molasses cookies, it’s time to contemplate how to present them beautifully.

I love using a rustic wooden tray lined with festive parchment paper. Stacking the cookies in a neat tower adds height, while a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of icing creates visual interest.

Don’t forget to garnish with sprigs of rosemary or cinnamon sticks for that holiday touch!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

Pairing the warm, spiced flavors of molasses cookies with complementary dishes can elevate your holiday spread.

I love serving them alongside a rich pumpkin soup or a sharp cheese platter.

Adding a festive cheese board with cranberries and walnuts works wonders, too.

For a heartier option, don’t underestimate the power of a savory ham—its saltiness balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly!

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What drinks can I pair it with?

What drinks can refresh your holiday gathering when serving molasses cookies?

I recommend pairing them with warm spiced cider for a cozy vibe.

Hot chocolate, especially with a hint of peppermint, complements the cookies’ flavors beautifully.

If you prefer something lighter, a glass of milk never disappoints.

For adults, try a rich, dark beer or a festive mulled wine to elevate the occasion!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Freeze Old Fashioned Christmas Molasses Cookies?

Yes, you can freeze them! I love preparing a batch ahead of time. Just make certain they’re well wrapped in plastic and stored in an airtight container. They’ll taste great when you thaw them out later!

How Long Do These Cookies Stay Fresh?

These cookies stay fresh for about a week when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If I freeze them, they last up to three months, making it easy to enjoy them later.

What Should I Do if the Dough Is Too Sticky?

If the dough’s too sticky, I’d add a little more flour, bit by bit, until it’s manageable. It helps to keep everything together without compromising the deliciousness. Don’t forget to chill it, too!

Can I Use Brown Sugar Instead of Molasses?

I wouldn’t recommend using brown sugar instead of molasses. They have different flavors and moisture levels. I’ve found that molasses adds a unique richness that’s hard to replicate with just brown sugar alone.

Are These Cookies Suitable for Gluten-Free Diets?

No, these cookies aren’t suitable for gluten-free diets unless you use a gluten-free flour substitute. I’ve tried modifying recipes before, and it can work, but be sure to check all ingredients carefully.