Spiced Christmas Molasses Cookies

Delight in the warm, spiced flavors of Christmas Molasses Cookies that create sweet memories—discover the recipe for this festive treat!

What kind of recipe is it?

Spiced Christmas Molasses Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that embodies the warmth and coziness of the season.

These soft, chewy cookies are infused with rich molasses and an enticing blend of spices like cinnamon and ginger, creating a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen.

Ideal for festive gatherings, cookie swaps, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea, they appeal to both baking enthusiasts and casual cooks alike.

Their nostalgic flavors make them perfect for families looking to create sweet memories during the holidays.

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Ingredients

Ingredient Quantity
All-purpose flour 2 ¾ cups (about 340g)
Baking soda 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 2 teaspoons
Ground ginger 1 teaspoon
Ground cloves ½ teaspoon
Ground nutmeg ¼ teaspoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Unsalted butter ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks or 170g), softened
Brown sugar 1 cup (packed)
Granulated sugar ¼ cup
Molasses ½ cup (preferably unsulfured)
Large eggs 1 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Optional: Granulated sugar (for rolling) ½ cup

This table outlines the specific ingredients and their quantities necessary to create the delicious Spiced Christmas Molasses Cookies.

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Cooking Steps

  1. Preheat the oven to 175 °C (350 °F). Position the oven rack in the center and verify convection settings are off or adjusted down by 10-15 °C (25-30 °F).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 ¾ cups (about 340 g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground ginger, ½ teaspoon ground cloves, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, and ½ teaspoon salt. Whisk the dry ingredients together until well blended.
  3. In another large bowl, cream ¾ cup (170 g) softened unsalted butter and 1 cup packed brown sugar until light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes using a handheld mixer on medium speed. Verify the mixture is pale and airy.
  4. Add ½ cup unsulfured molasses, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until fully combined, about 1 minute.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture from step 2 to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be cautious not to overmix; the dough should be thick and slightly sticky.
  6. If desired, chill the dough for 30 minutes in the refrigerator for easier handling (optional but recommended). This resting period also enhances flavor.
  7. Line a baking sheet (approximately 30 x 40 cm or 12 x 16 inches) with parchment paper. Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough for each cookie and roll it into a ball. Roll each ball in ½ cup granulated sugar if using.
  8. Place cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart to allow for spreading. Flatten the balls slightly with the bottom of a glass.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. The edges should appear set, and the centers will look slightly soft. The cookies will continue to firm up during cooling.
  10. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies should be firm to the touch and fragrant with warming spices.
  11. For enhanced flavor, let the cookies rest for a few hours or overnight in an airtight container. This will improve their texture and allow the spices to meld beautifully.
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Variations

Chocolate Molasses Delights:

Add 100 g (3.5 oz) of finely chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips to the dough for a rich, decadent flavor.

Vegan Spice Cookies:

Substitute ¾ cup (170 g) of unsalted butter with coconut oil and replace the egg with 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water for a vegan-friendly option.

Gluten-Free Ginger Molasses Cookies:

Use 2 ¾ cups (about 340 g) of gluten-free all-purpose flour blend instead of regular flour to accommodate gluten sensitivity.

Seasonal Pumpkin Spice Cookies:

Incorporate ½ cup (120 g) of pumpkin puree into the wet ingredients and increase the ground cinnamon to 2 teaspoons for a festive autumn twist.

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Tips on plating and presentation

festive cookie presentation ideas

When it comes to plating spiced Christmas molasses cookies, presentation is key to elevating their festive charm.

I love arranging them on a rustic wooden platter, garnishing with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or finely chopped cranberries for color.

Adding some cinnamon sticks or star anise around the cookies creates a warm vibe, perfect for the holidays.

It’ll impress your guests instantly!

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What other dishes can I pair it with?

pair with warm beverages

To enhance the experience of enjoying spiced Christmas molasses cookies, I love pairing them with a warm cup of spiced chai or a rich hot chocolate.

They also shine alongside a cheese platter, especially with sharp cheddar or creamy brie, which contrast beautifully with the sweetness.

Additionally, serving them with a fruit salad brings a revitalizing balance to their rich, spiced flavors.

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What drinks can I pair it with?

perfect beverage pairings suggested

What beverages truly complement the rich flavors of spiced Christmas molasses cookies?

I love pairing them with a warm cup of spiced chai or a rich cup of coffee.

Hot cocoa also works wonders, especially with a dash of peppermint.

For something festive, consider a mulled wine.

These drinks enhance the cookie’s spices, making every bite even more delightful.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Store Leftover Spiced Molasses Cookies?

I store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. If I want them to last longer, I freeze them—just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh!

Yes, you can freeze spiced molasses cookie dough! I usually wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. Just thaw it in the fridge when you’re ready to bake!

What Are Some Substitutes for Molasses?

You can substitute molasses with honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar. I’ve found these alternatives work well, but adjust sweetness levels since they might differ. Sometimes, I even mix them for a unique flavor!

Are Spiced Molasses Cookies Gluten-Free?

No, spiced molasses cookies aren’t typically gluten-free, as they usually contain wheat flour. However, I’ve had success using almond or oat flour to make delicious gluten-free versions that still taste fantastic!

How Long Do Spiced Molasses Cookies Last?

Spiced molasses cookies typically last about a week at room temperature in an airtight container. I prefer to freeze any extras, which keeps them fresh for up to three months when I’m ready to enjoy them!