These Virginia’s Molasses Cookies are a timeless treat with a rich, spiced flavor and a soft, chewy texture. Passed down through generations, this 100-year-old recipe is a delightful reminder of classic home baking. The molasses adds a deep, caramelized sweetness, while the warm spices create a cozy aroma that will fill your kitchen with nostalgia.
📋 Ingredients
- ¾ cup shortening (1 stick margarine + ½ stick butter)
- 1 cup sugar , plus extra for rolling
- ¼ cup heaping molasses
- 1 large egg
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon ground cloves
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
- Grease your cookie sheets well or line them with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Cream the Shortening and Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening (margarine and butter) and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Molasses and Egg
- Add the molasses to the creamed mixture and blend well until fully incorporated.
- Beat in the egg until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
Step 4: Sift and Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour , baking soda , salt , cloves , ginger , and cinnamon .
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
Step 5: Form the Cookie Balls
- Scoop out dough and form it into 1-inch balls using your hands.
- Roll each ball in sugar to coat evenly.
Step 6: Flatten the Cookies
- Dip the bottom of a juice glass into sugar to prevent sticking, then use it to slightly flatten each ball of dough.
- Place the flattened cookies 2 inches apart on the prepared cookie sheets to allow for spreading.
Step 7: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes . Watch the first batch closely, as ovens can vary. The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges but still soft in the center.
- Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 1–2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack or towel to cool completely.
Tips for Success
- Molasses Measurement: Use a heaping ¼ cup of molasses for the best flavor and texture. Blackstrap molasses works well if you prefer a stronger, slightly bitter molasses taste.
- Spice Adjustments: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking—add a pinch more ginger or cinnamon if you enjoy bold flavors.
- Storage: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week . They also freeze well for longer storage.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Virginia’s Molasses Cookies are a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and nostalgic flavors. The molasses gives them a rich, almost caramel-like depth, while the warm spices evoke the coziness of holiday baking. Soft, chewy, and rolled in sugar for a delicate crunch, these cookies are a true delight. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and joy to any occasion. Dive into this classic treat and let it become a cherished part of your baking repertoire!
⏱ Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Baking Time: 8–10 minutes per batch
- Cooling Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: ~30–35 minutes
🍽 Servings:
~24 cookies
🔥 Calories (Approximate):
~90 kcal per cookie (varies based on portion size)
