If you’re craving a cookie that’s bursting with warm spices, deep molasses flavor, and an irresistible crackled top, you have to try this Molasses Crinkle Cookies Recipe. These cookies strike the perfect balance between chewy and soft, with just a hint of sweetness that keeps you coming back for more. The rich molasses combined with cinnamon and ginger gives these treats a cozy, nostalgic feel—perfect for sharing with friends or savoring with a cup of tea on a chilly day. Once you make these, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to bake these classic cookies is a breeze because the ingredients list is straightforward yet purposeful. Each one plays a special role in creating the perfect texture and flavor that defines this Molasses Crinkle Cookies Recipe.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure and the soft foundation for these tender cookies.
- 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses: The star ingredient that brings deep, rich sweetness and that beautiful dark color.
- 1 tsp baking soda: Gives the cookies a subtle lift and helps create those signature crinkles on top.
- 1 tsp ground ginger: Adds a sharp, warm spicy note that balances the sweetness.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Infuses the dough with a comforting, aromatic flavor that’s utterly irresistible.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling): Coats each dough ball, creating a sparkling crust as the cookies bake.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark): Adds deeper caramel notes and moisture for chewiness.
- 1 large egg: Binds ingredients together while keeping the cookies moist and tender.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened): Gives richness and a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How to Make Molasses Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ground ginger, and cinnamon in a bowl. This blend of spices with the flour sets the stage for those iconic crinkly tops and the warm, inviting aroma.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter with both granulated and brown sugars. Beat until this mixture is light and fluffy—this step is crucial because it incorporates air, which helps give the cookies their tender crumb.
Step 3: Add the Egg and Molasses
Mix the large egg into the butter and sugar mixture until fully combined. Then pour in the molasses and blend until this sticky, sweet goodness is evenly distributed, turning the dough a deep amber color that’s just tempting enough to sneak a little lick.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry flour mixture into your wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated. Be careful not to overmix here; you want the dough to stay tender and soft to achieve that perfect chewy texture after baking.
Step 5: Shape and Roll
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Coat each ball generously with granulated sugar—this step ensures that delightful sugary crust with the classic crinkle pattern as they bake.
Step 6: Bake and Cool
Place your sugar-coated dough balls onto a lined baking sheet, spaced a couple of inches apart to allow for spreading. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, watching for tops to crack slightly. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on a wire rack to set before diving in.
How to Serve Molasses Crinkle Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are stunning on their own, adding a light dusting of powdered sugar before serving can make them feel extra special. For a festive twist, sprinkle a tiny pinch of ground cinnamon or finely chopped crystallized ginger atop each cookie to heighten the warm spice flavors.
Side Dishes
These cookies pair beautifully with warm beverages. A cup of hot chai tea or spiced latte complements the ginger and cinnamon notes perfectly. They also make a lovely accompaniment to a simple glass of cold milk or creamy vanilla almond milk, for dipping and savoring every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For gift-giving or special occasions, stack your Molasses Crinkle Cookies Recipe cookies tied with a rustic ribbon and include a small jar of homemade molasses glaze. You can also sandwich a bit of cream cheese frosting or even a dollop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent treat that guests will rave about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep any leftover Molasses Crinkle Cookies Recipe fresh by storing them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay soft and flavorful for up to five days, making them an easy snack to enjoy throughout the week or to share at spontaneous gatherings.
Freezing
If you want to keep these cookies around for longer, they freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll maintain their flavor and texture for up to three months—perfect for a quick holiday treat anytime.
Reheating
To warm your cookies back up, simply microwave them for about 10 to 15 seconds until they feel soft again. For a slightly crisp exterior, you can also pop them in a 325°F oven for 3 to 5 minutes. Enjoy them as if they just came out of the oven!
FAQs
Can I use dark molasses instead of unsulfured molasses?
Absolutely! Dark molasses will give your cookies a richer, slightly more robust flavor. It’s a delicious twist if you enjoy a deeper molasses taste, just keep in mind the cookie color may be a bit darker.
Why do the cookies need to be rolled in granulated sugar?
Rolling the dough in granulated sugar before baking creates that classic crackled top and adds a lovely crunch to the exterior, contrasting beautifully with the soft, chewy center.
Can I substitute the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour?
You can, but whole wheat flour will make the cookies denser and may alter the delicate softness you get with all-purpose flour. If you prefer whole wheat, try using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for balance.
Is it necessary to soften the butter before mixing?
Yes, softening the butter ensures it creams properly with the sugars, helping to incorporate air which is key for a tender, fluffy cookie texture. Just leave it out at room temperature for about an hour before baking.
How thin or thick will the cookies spread while baking?
These cookies spread moderately; they maintain a slightly thick shape while developing beautiful cracks on top. Spacing them about two inches apart on the baking sheet allows for perfect spreading without merging.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about biting into a freshly baked molasses cookie that’s soft on the inside with a crackled, sugar-kissed exterior. I can’t wait for you to try this Molasses Crinkle Cookies Recipe and make it your own cozy favorite. Whether it’s a holiday tradition or a spontaneous treat, these cookies bring warmth and happiness to any moment. Happy baking!
Print
Molasses Crinkle Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Molasses Crinkle Cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with warm spices like ginger and cinnamon. Coated in a sweet sugar crust that cracks beautifully as they bake, these classic cookies are perfect for holiday baking or anytime you want a comforting treat with rich molasses flavor.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsulfured molasses
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
For Rolling
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the cookies evenly.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, and cinnamon until well combined to distribute the spices evenly.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step helps create a tender cookie texture.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and molasses to the butter and sugar mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the flour mixture into the wet ingredients. Mix just until everything comes together, being careful not to overmix to ensure a soft cookie.
- Form and Coat Dough Balls: Using a tablespoon, scoop portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Roll the dough balls in granulated sugar to coat thoroughly, which gives the cookies their signature sweet, crinkly appearance.
- Arrange and Bake: Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto a lined baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes until the tops crack slightly. The cookies should be set but still soft in the center.
- Cool: Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them onto a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor, use dark molasses instead of light molasses.
- Do not overbake; the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
- Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for best creaming results.
- For an extra festive touch, consider adding a pinch of cloves or nutmeg to the spice mix.
