Molasses Crinkles are a classic, old-fashioned cookie that embodies the warm, comforting flavors of fall and winter. These cookies are soft and chewy on the inside, with a slightly crisp exterior, thanks to the signature crackled surface created by rolling the dough in sugar before baking. The deep, rich flavor of molasses is complemented by a blend of warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, making these cookies a perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup shortening
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup molasses
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground cloves
- Granulated sugar for rolling
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, followed by the molasses, mixing until well combined.
- Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
- Form the dough: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Shape the cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat it completely.
- Bake the cookies: Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the tops are crackled and the edges are set.
- Cool and enjoy: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These Molasses Crinkles are best enjoyed fresh from the oven when they’re still soft and slightly warm. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them chewy and delicious for days.
