These Ginger Molasses Cookies are the perfect treat for anyone who loves the deep, rich flavors of molasses complemented by the warm spices of ginger and cinnamon. Soft, chewy, and irresistibly spiced, these cookies offer a delightful taste experience that brings comfort and joy with every bite. Whether you’re setting up for a cozy evening, preparing for festive holiday gatherings, or just in the mood for a spicy-sweet snack, these cookies are sure to satisfy.
This recipe is a classic that balances the robust flavor of molasses with the bright, aromatic qualities of ginger and cinnamon. The cookies come out of the oven with a beautifully cracked surface, sparkling with sugar crystals that provide a satisfying crunch. They’re not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a great addition to any dessert table or cookie exchange. The dough is straightforward to prepare and versatile, ideal for making ahead and baking fresh when needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Flavorful: Each cookie bursts with the flavors of molasses, ginger, and cinnamon, offering a perfect balance of spice and sweetness.
- Easy to Make: The dough is simple to mix and the cookies bake quickly, making this recipe a great option for bakers of all skill levels.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: These cookies are wonderful for holidays, special occasions, or just a regular day when you crave something sweet and spiced.
Ingredients:
- 2½ cups cake flour
- ¾ cup margarine, softened
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup molasses (or substitute with honey)
- 1 cup sugar, plus 2 tablespoons for coating
- 1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- ¾ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
Preparation:
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). This ensures your oven is hot enough to bake the cookies evenly.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and to make cleanup easier.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, sift together cake flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, salt, and bicarbonate of soda. Sifting helps to aerate the flour and evenly distribute the spices and leavening agents.
Cream Margarine and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened margarine and 1 cup of sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the dough, helping the cookies to have a lighter texture.
Incorporate Wet Ingredients:
- Beat in the egg to the creamed sugar and margarine until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the molasses and water until well combined. The molasses adds moisture and a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the cookies.
Form the Cookie Dough:
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until the dough comes together without any dry spots.
Shape and Sugar Coat:
- Shape the dough into 24 balls, each about the size of a walnut.
- Roll each dough ball in the remaining 2 tablespoons of sugar until well coated. This gives the cookies their signature sparkly appearance.
Bake:
- Place the sugared dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart as they will spread slightly.
- Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass to ensure they bake evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 15 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown and set around the edges but still soft in the center.
Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps them set up without becoming too hard.
Storage Options:
- Room Temperature: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Tips:
- Consistent Size: Use a cookie scoop to ensure all your cookies are the same size and bake evenly.
- Molasses Substitute: If using honey instead of molasses, expect a milder, sweeter flavor.
- Spice Variations: Feel free to adjust the amount of ginger and cinnamon to suit your taste preferences.
Enjoy these Ginger Molasses Cookies with their delightful crunch and soft, chewy centers, a true treat for any occasion that calls for a little sweetness and spice.
