Name: Seriously Soft Molasses Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-489747H44M42S
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 and 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking soda; 2 teaspoons ground ginger; 1 and 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar; 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar; 1/3 cup (80ml) unsulphured or dark molasses (do not use blackstrap; prefer Grandma’s brand); 1 large egg, at room temperature; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 1/3 cup (67g) granulated or coarse sugar, for rolling

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 85 reviews

If you have been hunting for a cozy treat that melts in your mouth and fills your kitchen with the nostalgic scent of warm spices, let me introduce you to the Seriously Soft Molasses Cookies Recipe. This delightful twist on a classic treat is bursting with rich molasses flavor, perfectly balanced spices, and an irresistibly tender texture that will have you reaching for seconds—if not thirds. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply want to brighten your afternoon tea, these cookies deliver happiness in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a thick, brown dough mixture with a slightly rough texture inside a clear mixing bowl resting on a white marbled surface. The dough sticks to the sides and bottom of the bowl, with visible ridges and small air pockets, suggesting it has been recently mixed. In the foreground, an out-of-focus electric mixer attachment covered in the same brown dough is just above the bowl. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The ingredients for this recipe are wonderfully simple but each plays a crucial role in creating that perfect balance of taste, texture, and aroma. From the soft butter that adds richness to the fragrant spices that warm every mouthful, everything works harmoniously to bring these cookies to life.

All-purpose flour (2 and 1/4 cups): The base that gives structure to these soft molasses cookies.
Baking soda (1 and 1/2 teaspoons): Helps the cookies rise just enough to become tender but not cakey.
Ground ginger (2 teaspoons): Adds a gentle spicy warmth that’s signature to molasses cookies.
Ground cinnamon (1 and 1/2 teaspoons): A sweet and woodsy note that complements the molasses beautifully.
Ground cloves (1/4 teaspoon): Provides a subtle, aromatic depth without overpowering.
Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): A delicate touch of nuttiness enhancing the spice blend.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors.
Unsalted butter (3/4 cup, softened): Contributes to the softness and helps create that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Light or dark brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Adds moisture and rich caramel undertones.
Granulated sugar (1/4 cup): Adds subtle crunch and sweetness in the cookie dough.
Dark molasses (1/3 cup): The true star of the recipe, giving depth and a beautiful dark color—avoid blackstrap for a sweeter flavor.
Large egg (1, at room temperature): Binds everything together while keeping the dough tender.
Pure vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the warm spices and molasses flavor.
Granulated or coarse sugar (1/3 cup) for rolling: Creates a sparkling, slightly crunchy exterior that’s iconic for molasses cookies.

How to Make Seriously Soft Molasses Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Mix the Dry Ingredients

Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt in a bowl. This step ensures that your warm spices are evenly distributed throughout the dough, so every bite carries that comforting flavor you’re looking for.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with both the brown and granulated sugars until the mixture is creamy and combined—about two minutes. This is where the cookie dough starts to develop its luscious texture, thanks to the aeration that occurs during this process.

Step 3: Add Molasses, Egg, and Vanilla

Blend in the dark molasses until it’s fully incorporated, then add the egg and vanilla extract, beating everything together for about a minute. These additions enrich the dough’s flavor and moisture, setting the stage for those dreamy, soft cookies.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

On low speed, slowly mix the dry ingredient blend into the wet mixture until just combined. The resulting dough will be slightly sticky. This texture is exactly what you want because it means the cookies will turn out irresistibly soft.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover your dough tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and chill it for at least one hour, but it’s even better if you can leave it for up to two or three days. Chilling helps deepen the flavors and makes the dough easier to handle when rolling.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats. This prevents sticking and promotes even baking—always a win when it comes to cookies.

Step 7: Shape and Sugar the Cookies

Take the dough out of the fridge and if it has chilled for more than two hours, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes so the cookies can spread properly while baking. Roll tablespoon-sized balls of dough in granulated sugar, then space them 3 inches apart on your prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Bake and Create Those Beautiful Cracks

Bake for 11 to 12 minutes until the edges look set. If the tops don’t crack like you expect, gently tap the baking sheet on the counter 2 or 3 times to help the warm cookies spread and crack, then return to the oven for an extra minute. This little trick results in the signature crackled surface that’s so inviting.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps them set perfectly while keeping that soft texture inside.

How to Serve Seriously Soft Molasses Cookies Recipe

A tall stack of nine round cookies with a golden brown color and a slightly cracked texture is shown in the center. The cookies have a rough surface look and appear soft and chewy. The stack is placed on a white marbled surface with a blurred light background featuring soft pastel-colored bowls on the left side. The top cookie is lightly dusted with a white powder, possibly sugar. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While the sugar roll gives these cookies a sparkly finish, feel free to sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt just before baking for a pleasant contrast to the sweetness. A light drizzle of melted dark chocolate over cooled cookies also adds a touch of elegance and richness if you want to impress guests.

Side Dishes

These cookies are fantastic with a cozy cup of chai tea, classic milk, or even a latte—it’s a blissful pairing with warm, spiced beverages. For a festive touch, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to create a comforting dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Trying the Seriously Soft Molasses Cookies Recipe as an edible gift? Stack them in a rustic basket lined with parchment and tie with seasonal ribbons. You could also sandwich softened cream cheese frosting or marshmallow fluff between two cookies for a delightful treat that feels extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your molasses cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh and wonderfully soft for up to one week, perfect for nibbling over the course of several days without losing that just-baked charm.

Freezing

You can freeze the cookie dough for up to 3 months. Scoop dough balls onto a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake straight from frozen, just adding a couple extra minutes to the baking time. Alternatively, baked cookies freeze well too—just thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Reheating

To revive that freshly baked feeling, warm the cookies in a microwave for 10 to 15 seconds or pop them into a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This melts the butter again and brings back their signature softness and warmth.

FAQs

Can I use blackstrap molasses instead of dark molasses?

Blackstrap molasses has a stronger, more bitter flavor that can overpower these cookies. It’s best to stick with unsulphured dark molasses like Grandma’s brand for that perfect balance of sweetness and depth in the Seriously Soft Molasses Cookies Recipe.

Why do the cookies need to be chilled before baking?

Chilling the dough firms it up, making it easier to handle and helps the flavors meld beautifully. It also prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking, which is key to achieving that soft, chewy texture.

How do I know when the cookies are done?

Look for edges that appear set while the center is still soft. The tops should crack slightly, giving a beautiful texture. If cracks aren’t visible, using the gentle tap trick will help create them without overbaking.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just be sure it includes xanthan gum or another binder to maintain the chewy texture these cookies are known for.

What’s the best way to store cookies if I want them extra soft?

Store the cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread inside; the bread helps maintain moisture, keeping your Seriously Soft Molasses Cookies Recipe tender and delicious for days.

Final Thoughts

There’s something undeniably comforting about a cookie that’s soft, spicy, and sweet all at once, and the Seriously Soft Molasses Cookies Recipe fits that bill perfectly. If you want to make a batch that everyone will rave about and that fills your home with that warm, homey feeling, this recipe is what you want in your baking repertoire. Trust me, once you try these, molasses cookies will never be the same again!