Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies Recipe
Spiced, soft, and incredibly chewy, ginger molasses cookies hold a special place in cozy kitchens and holiday gatherings. But they are not just for winter or celebrations. These cookies bring warm flavor and comfort with every bite, no matter the season.
Their signature texture comes from the perfect balance of butter, brown sugar, and molasses. The warm combination of ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves adds a spicy kick that lingers on the tongue, while the sugar-coated tops give a delicate crunch on the outside. When baked just right, they stay moist and chewy on the inside — the way a good ginger cookie should.
Baking these from scratch is easier than you might expect. You don’t need a mixer or fancy tools. With a few pantry staples and some stirring, the dough comes together quickly. After a short rest and roll in sugar, these cookies bake to perfection and fill the kitchen with the most comforting aroma.
Whether you’re preparing a holiday treat box, making snacks for tea time, or simply craving something warm and spiced, this recipe is sure to deliver.
Ingredients Needed
Below is a complete list of ingredients along with their estimated calorie contribution per batch.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 ¼ cups | 900 |
| Ground ginger | 2 teaspoons | 12 |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | 6 |
| Ground cloves | ½ teaspoon | 3 |
| Baking soda | 2 teaspoons | 0 |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon | 0 |
| Unsalted butter (softened) | ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) | 1200 |
| Brown sugar (packed) | 1 cup | 820 |
| Egg | 1 large | 70 |
| Molasses | ¼ cup | 250 |
| Granulated sugar (for rolling) | ¼ cup | 200 |
Estimated Total Calories for Full Batch: ~3460
Makes about 24 cookies — 144 calories per cookie
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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease them to prevent sticking.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar using a sturdy spoon or hand whisk. Mix until smooth and well blended.
Crack the egg into the mixture and beat until fully incorporated. Add the molasses and stir until the color is even and the mixture turns dark and rich.
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches. Stir gently to combine, making sure no dry patches remain. The dough will be thick and sticky.
Cover the dough and let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the dough firm up and prevents spreading during baking.
Scoop out about a tablespoon of dough and roll it between your palms to form a ball. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat it evenly.
Place the dough balls about 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. They will spread slightly as they bake.
Bake for 9 to 11 minutes, just until the edges are set but the centers look slightly underbaked. This is the secret to achieving that soft, chewy texture.
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. They will firm up as they cool.
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Tips for Customizing the Recipe
You can easily adjust this recipe to suit your personal taste. For a more intense spice flavor, increase the ginger slightly or add a pinch of nutmeg. If you prefer a thicker cookie, chill the dough a bit longer and shape the cookies slightly taller.
Want a gluten-free version? Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of regular flour. The cookies may spread slightly less but will still taste great.
For a citrusy twist, add a teaspoon of orange zest to the dough. The brightness pairs beautifully with molasses and spice.
Craving extra texture? Fold in finely chopped nuts or crystallized ginger. You could also drizzle the finished cookies with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice.
If you want to tone down the sweetness, roll the dough in coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar. It still gives a nice crunch without being overly sweet.
Nutritional Information
Per cookie (based on 24 cookies):
- Calories: 144
- Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Sugar: 12g
- Protein: 1g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 80mg
These cookies are a rich treat meant to be enjoyed in moderation. They’re especially satisfying with a warm beverage or shared at a gathering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies fresh from the oven while they’re slightly warm for the ultimate experience. Pair them with hot tea, chai, or dark coffee to balance the sweetness.
They also make an excellent base for ice cream sandwiches. Simply place a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies and press gently.
For holiday gifting, place them in a decorative tin or wrap them in parchment paper and twine. They hold up well and travel beautifully.
Planning a dessert platter? These cookies go well with chocolate truffles, lemon bars, or shortbread for a mix of textures and flavors.
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Conclusion
Chewy ginger molasses cookies offer that perfect balance of warmth, spice, and sweetness. With just the right amount of chew in every bite, they bring a sense of comfort and nostalgia no matter when you bake them.
This recipe is easy to follow, full of pantry staples, and wonderfully flexible. It’s ideal for anyone who wants a timeless cookie with bold flavor and a soft center. Once you try them, it’s likely they’ll become a favorite in your kitchen for years to come.