Molasses Cookies
📜 Collection: John B. Collection | ✍️ Attribution: Unattributed | 📂 Category: Desserts A classic heirloom recipe for spiced molasses cookies packed with warm ginger, cinnamon, and plump raisins. These soft-baked treats offer a nostalgic aroma and rich, comforting flavor.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Inactive / Chill Time | Yield / Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 mins | 12 mins | None | 24 cookies |
🔪 Key Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
Cookie Ingredients
| Measurements | Ingredients | Prep / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1/2 cup | Shortening | Softened |
| 1/2 cup | Molasses | Unsulfured |
| 1 cup | Sugar | Granulated |
| 1 | Egg | Beaten |
| 3/4 cup | Evaporated milk | Combined with 3/4 tsp vinegar |
| 3/4 cup | Sour milk | Alternative or prepared |
| 3 cups | Flour | Sifted |
| 1 tsp | Salt | None |
| 1 tsp | Cinnamon | Ground |
| 1 tsp | Ginger | Ground |
| 1 tsp | Baking soda | Referred to as soda |
| As needed | Raisins | Optional mix-in |
Instructions
Step 1: Mixing the Base
- Cream together the 1/2 cup shortening, 1/2 cup molasses, and 1 cup sugar in a large mixing bowl until smooth.
- Beat in the 1 egg until fully incorporated.
Step 2: Combining Wet and Dry
- In a separate bowl or measuring cup, prepare the milk mixture using the 3/4 cup evaporated milk mixed with vinegar, or use 3/4 cup sour milk.
- In another bowl, sift together the 3 cups flour, 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp ginger, and 1 tsp baking soda.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and the milk mixture to the creamed molasses base, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in a handful of raisins if desired.
Step 3: Baking
- Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a prepared baking sheet.
- Bake at 375 degrees F until the cookies are set in the center and golden brown around the edges, yielding a soft and tender texture.
💡 Make-Ahead & Storage: The dough can be prepared and chilled in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before dropping and baking.
Original Recipe Scan
