Spicy Molasses Cookies Recipe

If you’re craving a cookie that’s bursting with cozy spices and a rich, molasses sweetness, this Spicy Molasses Cookies Recipe is exactly what you need. I absolutely love how these cookies turn out with their crackly tops and chewy centers—you can taste the warmth of cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and a hint of cardamom in every bite. They’re perfect for chilly afternoons, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a little kick with your sweet.

When I first tried this recipe, the combination of spices and molasses really surprised me—it’s like a hug in cookie form, with that spicy depth that keeps you coming back for more. Plus, you’ll find that the simplicity of ingredients and quick bake time make this a go-to for last-minute baking that impresses.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here plays its part to make these Spicy Molasses Cookies Recipe truly special. From the richness of molasses to the variety of warm spices, this mix creates the classic, nostalgic flavor you’re after.

• Granulated sugar: This adds sweetness and also for rolling the dough balls to give a sparkling, crunchy exterior.
• Vegetable shortening: I use Crisco for that perfect texture—keeps the cookies tender yet chewy.
• Molasses: The star of the recipe—it gives those deep rich notes and moisture in the cookies.
• Large egg: Helps bind everything together while adding richness and softness.
• Flour: Provides the structure for the cookies, so choose all-purpose for best results.
• Baking soda: This is what makes the cookies rise and crack wonderfully on top.
• Cinnamon: One of the warming spices that brings a familiar aroma and taste.
• Ground ginger: Adds a spicy bite that balances the sweetness.
• Ground cloves: Just a touch for a deep, almost smoky undertone.
• Ground cardamom: I love this subtle exotic hint—it makes the cookies a little more unique.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and cuts through the sweetness perfectly.

Variations

I love to mix things up depending on the season or who I’m baking for. The great thing about this Spicy Molasses Cookies Recipe is how flexible it is—you can tweak it slightly and still get fantastic results.

• Add chopped nuts: I sometimes mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for a pleasant crunch, especially during the holidays.
• Use butter instead of shortening: For a richer flavor, swap shortening with unsalted butter, but watch for a slightly denser texture.
• Make it gluten-free: I’ve experimented with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and they turned out chewy with just a slight textural difference.
• Adjust spices: More ginger if you want some extra zing, or swap cardamom for nutmeg if that’s what you have on hand—it’s all about your taste!

How to Make Spicy Molasses Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Mix Your Sugars and Wet Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F so it’s ready when the dough is. In a large bowl, I like to use an electric mixer to cream together the granulated sugar, shortening, molasses, and egg until everything is silky and well combined. This ensures your cookies end up wonderfully soft and moist.

Step 2: Add Your Dry Ingredients and Form Dough

In a separate bowl, whisk together your flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, cardamom, and salt. Lightly stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture—don’t overmix here; just enough until everything comes together into a slightly sticky dough.

Step 3: Shape and Sugar Coat Your Cookies

Using your hands, roll the dough into balls about the size of a walnut. Then, roll each ball generously in granulated sugar—this extra step is key for that signature crackly, sparkling cookie top that’s so irresistible. Place the coated balls on a lined baking sheet, leaving a little space between each so they have room to expand.

Step 4: Bake Until Perfectly Cracked

Bake for 9 to 11 minutes. Keep an eye out after 8 minutes—the cookies should start to crack and look a touch soft in the center. Let them bake for about a minute longer after the cracks appear. This timing keeps them chewy inside without drying out. Once done, transfer to a wire rack to cool, though honestly, they’re amazing warm if you can’t wait!

How to Serve Spicy Molasses Cookies Recipe

Garnishes

I usually keep it simple and let the sugar coating be the star garnish. But if I want to dress them up, sprinkling a tiny pinch of flaky sea salt on top before baking adds a delightful contrast. A dusting of powdered sugar also makes them look festive and adds a touch of sweetness.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of chai tea or spiced coffee—the warmth from the beverages complements the spices in the cookies perfectly. For a cozy touch, I love serving them alongside creamy vanilla ice cream or a rich hot chocolate when weather calls for indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, I arrange these Spicy Molasses Cookies Recipe on a decorative platter with fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs for a festive flair. Another fun idea is to sandwich a bit of cinnamon buttercream or cream cheese frosting between two cookies for an extra special treat that guests always rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature—this keeps them chewy and fresh for about a week. If you want to maintain that fresh-baked softness, adding a slice of bread to the container really helps keep moisture in and prevents them from drying out.

Freezing

I’ve had great results freezing the dough balls before baking. Just roll the dough, sugar coat, then freeze on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. When you’re ready, you can bake them straight from frozen—just add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

Reheating

If you have leftover cookies, warming them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or a few minutes in a low oven brings back that fresh-from-the-oven feel. I find this especially comforting on cold days when you want that melty molasses goodness again.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Spicy Molasses Cookies Recipe has become a beloved staple in my kitchen—it’s the kind of cookie that brings people together and sparks warm memories. I hope you enjoy baking and sharing these as much as I do, and please don’t hesitate to personalize the spices or add your own twist. Trust me, once you try them, these rich, spicy, tender cookies will become your new favorite go-to treat!

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