Molasses Crinkles

Molasses Crinkles Recipe - A Delicious Ginger Cookie

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 10-12 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Molasses Crinkles are a classic cookie recipe that has been enjoyed for generations. These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for the holiday season or any time you're craving a sweet treat. The combination of molasses, spices, and sugar creates a rich and flavorful cookie that is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

Molasses Crinkles have been a popular cookie recipe in American households since the 19th century. The use of molasses in baking dates back to colonial times when it was a common sweetener. The addition of spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves adds a warm and comforting flavor to these cookies. Over the years, this recipe has been passed down through generations and remains a beloved treat for many.

Ingredients

0.75 cup of shortening
1 cup of brown sugar
1 egg
0.25 cup of molasses
2.25 cups of flour
2 tsp of baking soda
0.25 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of cloves
1 tsp of cinnamon
1 tsp of ginger

How to prepare

Mix the first four ingredients together until well combined.
Stir in the remaining ingredients.
Chill the dough.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
Roll the dough into balls the size of walnuts.
Dip the tops of the dough balls into sugar.
Place the dough balls three inches apart on a greased cookie sheet.
Sprinkle each cookie with 2 or 3 drops of water to create a cracked surface.
Bake for 10 – 12 minutes, or until the cookies are set but not hard.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or raisins to the dough for added texture and flavor.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
Use different spices like nutmeg or allspice for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chill the dough before baking to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.

- Dip the tops of the dough balls in sugar before baking for a sweet and crunchy exterior.

- Sprinkling water on top of the cookies before baking helps create a cracked surface for that classic crinkle look.

- Be careful not to overbake the cookies, as they should be soft and chewy when done.

Serving Suggestions

Molasses Crinkles are perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot tea or coffee. They also make a great addition to any holiday cookie platter.

Cooking Techniques

Mixing the dough until just combined will help ensure a tender cookie.

- Rolling the dough into balls of equal size will help the cookies bake evenly.

- Sprinkling water on top of the cookies before baking helps create a cracked surface for that classic crinkle look.

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter can be used in place of shortening for a slightly different flavor.

- Maple syrup or honey can be used in place of molasses for a different taste.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for Molasses Crinkles can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cookies on a festive platter and dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Molasses Crinkles pair well with a glass of cold milk or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Molasses Crinkles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. To reheat, place the cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Molasses Crinkles contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Molasses Crinkles contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Molasses Crinkles contains approximately 7 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Molasses Crinkles contains approximately 1 gram of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Molasses Crinkles are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Molasses Crinkles contain wheat and eggs.

Summary

Molasses Crinkles are a sweet and indulgent treat that is best enjoyed in moderation due to their high sugar and fat content.

Summary

Molasses Crinkles are a delicious and nostalgic cookie recipe that is perfect for any occasion. With their rich molasses flavor and warm spices, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your household. Enjoy them with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy treat that will satisfy your sweet tooth.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Molasses Crinkles. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy kitchen. Martha was known in our town for her delicious baked goods, and she was always eager to share her recipes with me. As we sat at her kitchen table sipping tea, she pulled out an old recipe card from her collection and handed it to me with a smile.

"Here, Sarah, this is one of my favorite cookie recipes. I think you'll love it," Martha said, her eyes twinkling with excitement.

I took the recipe card and read it over, taking in the ingredients and instructions. Molasses, sugar, flour, spices...it all sounded so delicious. Martha explained to me how the cookies would come out soft and chewy, with a perfect crinkled top that would make them irresistible.

I couldn't wait to try it out for myself. Martha and I spent the afternoon baking together, mixing the ingredients and rolling the dough into little balls. The smell of molasses and spices filled the air as the cookies baked in the oven, and when we finally took them out and let them cool, the whole kitchen was filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked Molasses Crinkles.

As I took my first bite of the warm, chewy cookie, I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen. I thanked Martha for sharing it with me, and she simply smiled and said, "It's a family recipe, passed down through generations. I'm happy to pass it on to you, my dear friend."

From that day on, Molasses Crinkles became a favorite in my household. My children loved them, and they always requested them for special occasions and holidays. I would bake batch after batch, perfecting the recipe and making it my own with a few tweaks and additions here and there.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family, who all raved about the delicious cookies. They couldn't get enough of the soft, chewy texture and the warm, comforting flavor of molasses and spices. I even entered them in a local baking competition once, and they won first prize. I was so proud to have Martha's recipe be recognized and appreciated by so many.

As time went on, I continued to make Molasses Crinkles for my loved ones, always thinking of Martha and the day she shared the recipe with me. I loved how baking brought people together, how a simple cookie could bring so much joy and warmth to those who enjoyed it.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the delicious smell of Molasses Crinkles baking in the oven, I can't help but feel grateful for the recipe that has brought so much happiness to my life. I think back to that summer day with Martha, and I smile, knowing that her family recipe will continue to be passed down through generations, bringing joy and comfort to all who taste its sweet, crinkly goodness.