Name: Iced Molasses Cookies Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup shortening; 1/2 cup salted butter (softened); 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1/3 cup molasses; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 teaspoons baking soda; 3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour (fluff then scoop); 2 cups powdered sugar; 4 tablespoons milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or vanilla paste)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 31 reviews

If you’re craving a cookie that perfectly balances deep, warm spices with a sweet, glossy finish, this Iced Molasses Cookies Recipe is going to become your new favorite treat. These cookies offer a chewy texture with that beautiful molasses richness, topped with a smooth vanilla glaze that makes every bite absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a cozy afternoon tea, or just because, these cookies bring that special homemade touch that feels like a warm hug in dessert form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a metal mixing bowl with light brown dough inside. A white paddle mixer is partially buried in the dough, showing a rough, crumbly texture in chunks around the bowl. The bowl’s inside is shiny and smooth. The background is blurred but includes a hint of a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Iced Molasses Cookies Recipe comes from a handful of familiar, kitchen-staple ingredients that combine to create an unforgettable flavor and texture. Each component adds a unique note that rounds out these cookies perfectly.

Shortening (1/2 cup): Adds tenderness and helps the cookies keep their shape without spreading too much.
Salted butter, softened (1/2 cup): Boosts flavor richness and a slight crispness on the edges.
Brown sugar, packed (3/4 cup): Brings moisture and a deep caramel undertone.
Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Adds sweetness and helps with the cookie’s structure.
Large egg (1): Binds all ingredients and contributes to the tender crumb.
Molasses (1/3 cup): The star ingredient providing bold, earthy sweetness and that classic molasses flavor.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp + 1 tsp for icing): Enhances all the flavors and lends a lovely fragrance.
Ground cinnamon (2 tsp): Warm and inviting spice that’s essential for that holiday vibe.
Ground ginger (1 1/2 tsp): Adds a subtle zing and depth.
Ground cloves (1/2 tsp): A little goes a long way to amp up the spiciness.
Salt (1/2 tsp): Balances sweetness and highlights the spices.
Baking soda (2 tsp): Gives the cookies a light rise and slight chewiness.
All-purpose flour (3 1/4 cups, fluff then scoop): The body of the dough, giving structure and chew.
Powdered sugar (2 cups): The base for the icing—smooth and sweet.
Milk (4 Tbsp): Thins out the powdered sugar, making the icing perfect for dipping.

How to Make Iced Molasses Cookies Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheets

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure your cookies bake evenly and won’t stick. This step makes cleanup a breeze and keeps your cookies perfectly shaped.

Step 2: Cream the Fats and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shortening, softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat everything together until the mixture turns smooth and creamy—this is the foundation for tender cookies.

Step 3: Add the Wet Flavorings

Next, mix in the molasses, egg, and vanilla extract. The molasses is the heart of this recipe, so be sure to fully incorporate it to spread its rich flavor throughout every bite.

Step 4: Incorporate Your Spices and Leavening

Add the ground cinnamon, ginger, cloves, salt, and baking soda to the wet mixture. These warm spices create the iconic molasses cookie flavor that dances on your taste buds.

Step 5: Add Flour Gradually

Now, add the flour one cup at a time, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can make the cookies tough, so it’s best to stop as soon as the dough comes together with no dry spots.

Step 6: Shape the Dough

Scoop the dough into balls about 2 tablespoons in size. This size helps the cookies bake evenly and keeps them chewy in the center.

Step 7: Bake Your Cookies

Place dough balls on the parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for slight spreading. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until the cookies are puffed and just set around the edges.

Step 8: Cool and Ice the Cookies

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet—it helps them firm up without breaking. While they cool, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Dip each cookie top into the icing, letting the excess drip back into the bowl.

Step 9: Let the Icing Set

Return the iced cookies to the baking sheet and let the glaze set completely. This frosting not only adds sweetness but makes these cookies look stunningly festive.

How to Serve Iced Molasses Cookies Recipe

The image shows several round cookies with a cracked surface covered by a thin, white icing layer that fills some cracks while leaving others exposed, creating an uneven pattern. The cookies have a golden-brown base with a slightly rough texture beneath the smooth, glossy white icing. They are placed on a white marbled textured surface with slight wrinkles, resembling parchment paper. The cookies appear evenly spaced with one central cookie in focus and others partially visible around its edges. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Sprinkle your cookies with a pinch of finely chopped crystallized ginger or a little dusting of cinnamon before the icing sets for an extra touch of sparkle and spice. These little touches add a homemade look and an extra kick of flavor.

Side Dishes

These cookies pair beautifully with a hot cup of chai tea, coffee, or even a cold glass of milk. The creamy sweetness of the icing complements warm beverages, creating a cozy snack experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or holiday gatherings, arrange your Iced Molasses Cookies Recipe on a rustic wooden board with sprigs of fresh rosemary or evergreen for a festive vibe. Wrapping them up in cellophane tied with twine makes for a wonderful gift, too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. The icing might soften slightly but will still taste deliciously fresh.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cookies longer, freeze them without icing on a baking sheet. Once firm, transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When ready, thaw at room temperature and then ice for that fresh-from-the-oven feel.

Reheating

To refresh refrigerated or frozen cookies, warm them gently in a low oven (about 300 degrees Fahrenheit) for 5 minutes, but be careful not to melt the icing completely.

FAQs

Can I substitute butter for shortening?

Yes, you can use all butter if you prefer, but shortening helps keep the cookies soft and chewy by preventing too much spreading, so the texture may be slightly different.

What if I don’t have molasses on hand?

Molasses is key for the unique flavor of these cookies. Dark corn syrup or honey won’t provide the same depth, so it’s best to use molasses or pick a different cookie recipe.

Can these cookies be made gluten-free?

You can try substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend; just keep a close eye on dough consistency. Sometimes gluten-free doughs require a bit more moisture or binding agents.

Why do the cookies need to cool before icing?

Cooling prevents the icing from melting and running off the cookies, allowing it to set with a smooth, glossy finish.

How do I adjust baking time for larger or smaller cookies?

Smaller cookies will bake faster, around 8-10 minutes, while larger ones might take up to 14 minutes. Keep an eye on the edges to avoid overbaking.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to make the perfect Iced Molasses Cookies Recipe, it’s time to grab your mixing bowl and start baking. These cookies are guaranteed to fill your kitchen with the coziest aromas and bring smiles wherever they go. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll want to make them again and again!