The Story & Intro
Whenever the weather starts to cool down, I instantly think of warm spices, cozy evenings, and the kind of homemade treats that fill the whole house with comfort. One of the recipes that brings me the most joy during the holidays is Ginger Molasses Cookies. They’re soft, chewy, beautifully spiced, and totally irresistible. And honestly? These Ginger Molasses Cookies always make me feel like I’m stepping right back into my childhood kitchen in Crete.
Growing up, my grandmother didn’t bake American-style cookies, but she did teach me how to balance spices with sweetness something that fits perfectly in Ginger Molasses Cookies. When I first tasted these spiced cookies in the U.S., they reminded me of the cinnamon- and clove-filled treats she used to make. I immediately knew I had to recreate them, with my own touch of warmth and simplicity.
Now, whenever I bake a batch, my whole kitchen fills with the dreamy scent of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses. And yes my kitchen always gets messy! Flour everywhere, sticky molasses on the counter, and me laughing through the chaos. That’s the part I love most about baking: the beautiful imperfections.
As a woman who believes food is a way to share love, comfort, and connection, Ginger Molasses Cookies feel like the perfect holiday treat. They’re simple enough for beginners, but special enough to make memories. They’re soft in the center, lightly crisp on the edges, and rolled in sugar for a sparkly finish that looks like holiday magic.
So let’s make a batch of these cozy, chewy, ginger-packed beauties and fill your home with warmth.
Ingredients
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for rolling)
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup molasses
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, baking soda, and salt. This helps the spices blend evenly throughout the dough.
2. Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. This step gives the cookies their soft, chewy texture.
3. Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract. The molasses gives the cookies their deep color and rich flavor.
4. Combine Mixtures
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.
5. Chill the Dough
Cover and refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour. This prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
6. Shape & Roll
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then coat each ball in granulated sugar for that classic sparkle.
7. Bake
Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes.
The tops should be crackly, and the centers soft.
8. Cool
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy warm with a glass of milk or a cozy cup of tea
- Pair with hot apple cider for a perfectly spiced treat
- Stack and tie with ribbon for holiday gifting
- Serve on a dessert board with fudge, truffles, or shortbread
🎄 Recipe Card (With Emojis)
⏱️ Time
- Prep: 15 minutes
- Chill: 1 hour
- Bake: 10 minutes
- Total: 1 hour 25 minutes
🧺 Ingredients
- 2¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp ginger
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp cloves
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¾ cup butter
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 egg
- ¼ cup molasses
- 1 tsp vanilla
👩🍳 Instructions
- Whisk dry ingredients.
- Cream butter and sugar.
- Add egg, molasses, vanilla.
- Combine mixtures into dough.
- Chill 1 hour.
- Roll in sugar and place on sheet.
- Bake 8–10 minutes at 350°F.
- Cool and serve.
📝 Notes
- For extra chewiness, underbake slightly.
- Add orange zest for a citrus twist.
- Store in an airtight container for 5–7 days.
📊 Nutrition (Approx. per cookie)
- Calories: 110
- Fat: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 1g
Conclusion
These Ginger Molasses Cookies have become one of my most cherished holiday recipes. They’re simple to make, full of warming spices, and the kind of cookie that brings comfort with every bite. Whether you’re baking with family, gifting to friends, or enjoying them fresh from the oven, they’re sure to fill your home with happiness.
Let your kitchen get a little messy trust me, it’s worth it. And remember: cooking isn’t just about food, it’s about creating moments that stay with us. I hope these cookies bring warmth, sweetness, and joy into your holiday season. ❤️✨