On a brisk winter afternoon, as the scent of spices wafts through the kitchen, I often find myself reaching for a beloved recipe that feels like a warm hug: Bakery Style Molasses Cookies. Thick, chewy, and infused with the cozy notes of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, these delightful cookies bring back memories of childhood holiday gatherings. Not only are they incredibly easy to make, but they also transform an ordinary day into something special—perfect for those moments when you crave a little sweetness without the hassle. Plus, they make for a fantastic crowd-pleaser during festive gatherings or cozy nights in. Ready to find out how to create these irresistible treats at home? Let’s dive into this comforting recipe!
Why are Bakery Style Molasses Cookies a Must-Try?
Decadent Flavor: The rich blend of spices, including ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, creates a taste sensation that’s cozy and nostalgic.
Effortless Baking: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a batch that rivals your favorite bakery treats—perfect for those busy days!
Crowd Favorite: Whether at holiday gatherings or family dinners, these cookies are sure to impress everyone and disappear in no time.
Customizable: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for a personal twist! Check out our suggestions for more variation ideas to keep your baking fresh.
Perfect Pairing: Serve them warm with a glass of milk or a steaming cup of tea for an unbeatable afternoon snack that brings joy to your day.
Bakery Style Molasses Cookies Ingredients
• These ingredients come together for a chewy treat that’s perfect for any occasion!
For the Dough
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides the bulk and structure; gluten-free flour blends can be used as a substitute.
- Ginger – Adds warmth and spiciness, with fresh ginger delivering a bolder flavor.
- Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent to ensure a light texture in these chewy cookies.
- Cinnamon – Enhances the flavor profile with a sweet, warm note; opt for Ceylon cinnamon for something special.
- Ground Cloves – Adds depth and a hint of spice; adjust based on your personal taste preference.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the cookies.
- Butter – Contributes rich creaminess; for a non-dairy version, you can substitute with coconut oil.
- Brown Sugar – Provides moisture and depth of flavor, helping the cookies stay chewy; dark brown sugar intensifies the taste.
- Granulated Sugar – Coats the cookies for that perfect crunchy exterior and added sweetness.
- Egg – Binds all ingredients together while adding moisture; use a flax egg for a vegan-friendly option.
- Molasses – The central flavor that brings sweetness and moisture; blackstrap molasses offers a more robust flavor.
- Water – Helps mix the molasses with the other ingredients smoothly.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Bakery Style Molasses Cookies
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your baking sheets. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent the cookies from sticking. This step ensures that your Bakery Style Molasses Cookies have a perfect bake, so take a moment to get your workspace ready.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt until well combined. This mixture is the backbone of your cookies, providing warmth and spice that will elevate the flavor. Ensure there are no lumps for an even distribution of spices throughout your dough.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture turns light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. The sugars will dissolve into the butter, resulting in a creamy base that enhances the chewiness of your Bakery Style Molasses Cookies. Scrape down the sides as needed to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 4: Add Egg and Molasses
Next, add an egg to the creamed mixture, followed by the molasses and a splash of water. Mix thoroughly on medium speed until everything is combined and creamy. This step infuses your dough with rich sweetness and a lovely depth of flavor that makes these molasses cookies so special.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to tough cookies. You want to ensure all the flour is incorporated without losing the tenderness of your Bakery Style Molasses Cookies.
Step 6: Chill the Dough (if necessary)
If your dough feels too sticky to handle, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This will make shaping the cookies easier and help them maintain their thick texture while baking. If the dough is manageable, proceed to the next step.
Step 7: Shape and Coat Dough Balls
Once your dough is ready, scoop out portions, about ¼ cup each, and roll them into balls. Roll each dough ball in coarse granulated sugar for a delightful crunch on the outside. Place them evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheets, giving them room to spread as they bake.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, rotating the baking sheets halfway through for even baking. You’ll know they’re done when the edges are golden and tops are slightly cracked. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t over-bake; they should look puffed and set.
Step 9: Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This resting period lets them firm up a bit before moving them to wire racks to cool completely. Letting your Bakery Style Molasses Cookies cool thoroughly enhances their chewy texture, making them a perfect treat for any occasion.
How to Store and Freeze Bakery Style Molasses Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their chewy texture and freshness.
Fridge: If preferred, you can refrigerate the cookies for up to two weeks; however, they may lose some of their softness. Allow them to come to room temperature before enjoying!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, covered with plastic wrap or in a freezer-safe bag, for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature when ready to indulge.
Reheating: To revive your Bakery Style Molasses Cookies, gently heat them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes; they’ll taste freshly baked!
Bakery Style Molasses Cookies: Delicious Customizations
Feel free to bring your personal flair to these delightful cookies with creative swaps and additions!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make these cookies suitable for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor.
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Vegan: Swap the egg for a flax egg made with 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed and 2.5 tablespoons of water for a vegan-friendly version that still binds perfectly!
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Nutty Crunch: Add 1 cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to incorporate a delightful crunch that complements the chewy texture.
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Chocolate Lovers: Fold in 1 cup of dark chocolate chips right before baking for a rich and decadent cookie experience that perfectly balances the spices.
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Spice Swap: Change up the spices by using 1 teaspoon of cardamom instead of cloves for a different aromatic touch that still delivers warmth.
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Citrus Zing: For a refreshing twist, include the zest of 1 orange or lemon to the dough; it brightens the flavors and adds a lovely aromatic complexity.
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Heat Factor: If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick that beautifully contrasts with the sweetness.
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Easy Storage Tip: Check out our how to store and freeze Bakery Style Molasses Cookies for tips on keeping your treats fresh for longer!
With these variations, your Bakery Style Molasses Cookies will always be exciting and uniquely yours!
Expert Tips for Bakery Style Molasses Cookies
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Softened Butter: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature; it blends better with sugars and helps achieve a perfect chewy consistency.
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Don’t Over-Mix: When incorporating dry ingredients, mix just until combined to avoid tough cookies; a gentle touch ensures your Bakery Style Molasses Cookies remain tender.
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Chill If Sticky: If the dough is sticky, don’t skip chilling it! This helps the cookies keep their thick shape during baking.
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Perfect Baking: Watch for golden edges and cracked tops as signs of doneness; this way, your cookies will be beautifully puffy and chewy.
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Cool Completely: Allow cookies to cool fully on a wire rack to attain the desired chewy texture; warm cookies need time to set properly.
What to Serve with Bakery Style Molasses Cookies
These thick and chewy treats are perfect companions to elevate your dining experience and create unforgettable moments.
- Glass of Milk: The classic pairing! It enhances the sweetness and gives a cold, refreshing contrast to the warm spiced cookies.
- Cup of Tea: A soothing beverage that balances the spices, making each bite of the cookie feel even more indulgent.
Cookie and tea lovers rejoice! This combo not only warms the heart but also comfortingly transports you to a cozy café atmosphere.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy ice cream adds a delightful contrast, with its cool texture melting beautifully over the warm cookies.
- Hot Chocolate: Rich and decadent, a steaming mug of hot chocolate intertwines beautifully with the spices, making the afternoon treat divine.
Imagine cradling a warm mug in one hand, cookie in the other. Pure bliss!
- Cheese Plate: Pairing with mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese brings a savory tune that complements the sweetness and spice.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of apples and oranges brings brightness, cutting through the richness of the cookies.
Elevate your dessert table and bask in the joyful flavors of these delightful combinations!
Make Ahead Options
These Bakery Style Molasses Cookies are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy homemade treats without the hassle on busy days! You can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the ingredients and storing the dough in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you prefer, you can also shape the cookie balls, roll them in sugar, and refrigerate them for up to 3 days; this saves time when you’re ready to bake! Just take them out and bake directly from the fridge for a delightful, fresh-baked experience. To maintain their chewy texture, be cautious not to over-bake, and let them cool completely on a wire rack for the best results.
Bakery Style Molasses Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best molasses for my cookies?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, I recommend using blackstrap molasses, as it gives a richer, deeper taste. If you prefer something milder, regular unsulfured molasses is a great option. Just keep in mind that the type of molasses you choose can significantly impact the overall flavor of your Bakery Style Molasses Cookies.
How long can I store Bakery Style Molasses Cookies?
You can store these delightful cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain their chewiness. If you want to enjoy them longer, freezing is a fantastic option! Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Just remember to thaw them at room temperature before indulging!
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels sticky to the touch, no worries! Simply cover it with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes. This step will make the dough easier to handle and help maintain the thick texture of your Bakery Style Molasses Cookies when baking.
Can I make these cookies vegan-friendly?
Yes, absolutely! To make these cookies vegan, you can replace the egg with a flax egg by mixing one tablespoon of ground flaxseed with three tablespoons of water; let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Additionally, substitute the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter. This way, you can still enjoy those thick, chewy cookies!
How can I prevent my cookies from becoming tough?
Great question! To keep your Bakery Style Molasses Cookies tender and avoid toughness, it’s crucial not to over-mix the dough once you add the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined and if the dough is sticky, chill it for easier handling. These small steps ensure your cookies turn out deliciously chewy and soft!
Bakery Style Molasses Cookies: Irresistibly Thick and Chewy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt until combined.
- Cream softened butter with brown and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the egg, molasses, and water to the creamed mixture, mixing until combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
- Chill the dough if it feels sticky for 20-30 minutes.
- Roll out dough portions into balls and coat in granulated sugar, placing them on the baking sheets.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, rotating halfway through.
- Let cookies cool on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
