Hey y’all! If you’re searching for a cookie that’s bursting with holiday cheer, look no further. These Gingerbread Molasses Crinkle Cookies are a delightful blend of warm spices and rich molasses, creating a chewy, flavorful treat. Perfect for festive gatherings or cozy nights in, these cookies are sure to win over any crowd. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- These cookies offer a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors.
- The soft and chewy texture is irresistible.
- They’re simple to make, requiring only one bowl.
- Perfect for holiday gift-giving and cookie swaps.
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Directions
1. Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and molasses, beating until well combined.
3. Combine and Chill
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Preheat Oven and Roll the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll dough into 1-inch balls and coat them in granulated sugar.
5. Bake the Cookies
Place the balls on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are set.
Notes
- For softer cookies, slightly underbake them by a minute or two. Learn more about baking cookies.
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- Use a cookie scoop for even portioning and perfect round cookies.
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Gingerbread: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist.
- Spicy Molasses: Increase the ginger to 1 tablespoon for extra warmth.
- Orange Zest: Mix in the zest of one orange for a citrusy kick.
Required Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Storage Instructions
Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. See tips for freezing cookies.
Suggested Pairings
Enjoy these cookies with a hot cup of chai tea or a glass of cold milk. They also pair wonderfully with vanilla ice cream.
Pro Tips
- Ensure your baking soda is fresh for the best rise and spread. Here’s why it matters.
- Chilling the dough enhances the flavors and makes handling easier.
- For best results, bake cookies on the middle rack.
FAQ
- Can I use blackstrap molasses? Yes, but it will result in a more robust, less sweet flavor.
- How can I make these cookies gluten-free? Substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- What if I don’t have cloves? You can omit them or substitute with a pinch of nutmeg.