There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about the smell of molasses cookies baking in the oven. It brings to mind warm kitchens, cozy afternoons, and simple homemade treats shared with family. These old-fashioned soft molasses cookies are just the kind of comfort food that never goes out of style. Soft in the center with slightly crisp edges, their deep, spiced flavor and chewy texture make them a timeless favorite. The combination of brown sugar, molasses, cinnamon, and ginger gives these cookies a rich, warmly spiced profile—perfect for holidays, chilly days, or just when you need a little sweetness in your life. What sets these cookies apart is how soft and tender they remain, even days after baking. They’re easy to make in one bowl with common pantry ingredients, and rolling them in sugar before baking adds that sparkly finish and extra touch of sweetness. Enjoy them with tea, coffee, or a cold glass of milk. Whether you’re making them for your own home or to share with loved ones, these cookies are a heartwarming reminder of how simple ingredients can create something truly memorable.
Servings: Makes approximately 24 cookies
Ingredients
1 cup packed brown sugar
1 cup butter, softened
1/4 cup dark molasses
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat with non-stick spray. In a large bowl or stand mixer, beat together the brown sugar, softened butter, molasses, egg, and vanilla until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Add the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt, and mix until fully combined. Scoop dough by the tablespoon and roll into 1½-inch balls. Roll each ball in the granulated sugar and place on the baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Bake for 13–15 minutes, just until the edges are set but the centers remain soft. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack before storing or serving.
Nutritional and Dietary Notes
These cookies offer a warm, spiced flavor and soft texture but are best enjoyed in moderation due to their high sugar and butter content. They contain gluten, eggs, and dairy, making them unsuitable for those with allergies to these ingredients or those following a vegan or gluten-free diet. However, the molasses and spices do provide small amounts of minerals and antioxidants.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
If these cookies brought a smile to your face, why not pass that joy along? Share the recipe with friends or drop a comment below with how yours turned out. A shared recipe becomes part of someone else’s memory—and that’s the sweetest part of all.