Ginger Molasses Soft Chewy

Discovering ginger molasses cookies was like stumbling upon a secret treasure in my grandma's old recipe box. The first time I made them, the warm spices and rich molasses filled my kitchen with an irresistible aroma that felt like a cozy hug on a chilly day.

One holiday season, I whipped up these cookies unexpectedly when friends dropped by. Their smiles and requests for the recipe made it clear I had found a new favorite to share.

Ingredients

• All-purpose flour: This forms the perfect base for structure, and measuring it carefully keeps cookies tender.
• Ground ginger: Adds that signature warm spice, fresh grinding makes all the difference.
• Ground cinnamon: Brings cozy notes that complement the ginger.
• Ground cloves: Use sparingly for a subtle depth.
• Ground nutmeg: Just a pinch amps up the flavor complexity.
• Baking soda: Helps cookies rise slightly for softness.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the spices.
• Unsalted butter: Softened perfectly for creaming; quality butter enriches the flavor.
• Dark brown sugar: Adds moisture and molasses notes enhancing chewiness.
• Large egg: Binds ingredients and contributes to softness.
• Unsulphured molasses: The star ingredient for rich, deep sweetness.
• Vanilla extract: Rounds out the spice with a smooth aroma.
• Granulated sugar: For rolling, creates a slight crisp exterior.

Instructions

Get Everything Ready:

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper so your cookies don’t stick and bake evenly.

Mix The Dry:

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt, creating a fragrant and balanced spice blend.

Cream The Butter And Sugar:

In a large bowl, beat softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy—this airy base brings out the cookies’ luscious texture.

Blend Wet Ingredients:

Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla until fully combined; the mixture should be glossy and aromatic.

Combine Wet And Dry:

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing gently so the dough comes together without losing lightness.

Shape The Cookies:

Scoop tablespoon-sized dough, roll into balls, then coat evenly in granulated sugar for a sweet crunch.

Arrange For Baking:

Space the dough balls about 2 inches apart on lined sheets, giving them room to spread.

Bake To Perfection:

Bake 9 to 11 minutes until edges are set but centers look soft; the kitchen fills with an irresistible spicy-molasses scent.

Cool Down:

Let cookies rest on baking sheets 5 minutes to firm up before moving to wire racks to cool fully, sealing their chewy softness inside.

Save

This recipe became more than just cookies when I brought them to a neighbor’s house after a tough week—they were a small comfort that spoke louder than words.

Serving Ideas That Clicked

Enjoy these cookies with a warm cup of tea or mulled cider to amplify their cozy spices. They're also great as a sweet surprise in lunchboxes or paired with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist.

Keeping It Fresh

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain softness. If they start to harden, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave softens them right up.

Last Minute Tips Before You Go

Using fresh spices really lifts the flavors; don’t skip the pinch of cloves and nutmeg. Also, don’t overmix your dough or you’ll end up with tougher cookies.

• Make sure your butter is softened but not melting for the best texture.
• Try adding a tiny pinch of black pepper for a surprising spicy note.
• These cookies freeze well, so double the batch and enjoy later.

Save

Thanks for hanging out in the kitchen with me—these cookies are always worth the small effort and big smiles. Can’t wait for you to share this cozy treat with your favorite people!

Recipe FAQs

→ How can I achieve the perfect chewy texture?

For the ideal chew, slightly underbake the cookies so the centers remain soft while edges set firm.

→ What spices best complement molasses in this treat?

Ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg create a balanced warm spice profile complementing the rich molasses.

→ Can I add extra flavor twists?

A pinch of black pepper can add a subtle spicy kick without overpowering the original flavors.

→ What is the best way to store these cookies?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their softness for several days.

→ Are there suggested pairings for serving?

These spiced treats pair wonderfully with hot tea or mulled cider, enhancing their cozy characteristics.