Soft Molasses Spice Cookies with Warm Winter Spices
These tender, chewy molasses cookies showcase a perfect blend of ginger, cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg that fills your kitchen with warm, nostalgic aromas. The generous amount of molasses creates incredibly soft cookies with deep, rich flavor and beautiful golden-brown color. Perfect for holiday gatherings, winter afternoons, or anytime you crave comforting spiced treats. The dough chills for easy rolling and cutting, making these ideal for decorating or gift-giving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Combine flour, baking soda, salt, and all spices in a bowl and mix well to blend
- 2
Combine brown sugar, vegetable oil, molasses, milk, and vanilla in a large bowl
- 3
Mix thoroughly until well combined
- 4
Add flour mixture gradually to wet ingredients
- 5
Mix well until dough forms
- 6
Chill dough for 1 hour or until firm
- 7
Roll out portions of dough on lightly floured surface to 1/4-inch thickness
- 8
Cut with floured 2 1/2 inch cookie cutter or favorite shaped cutters
- 9
Place cut cookies on greased cookie sheet
- 10
Bake for 8-10 minutes
- 11
Cool completely before storing in tightly covered metal container
Tips
Chill dough thoroughly for easier rolling and cleaner cuts with cookie cutters
Don't overbake - cookies should still look slightly soft when removing from oven
Store in metal container to maintain soft texture and prevent cookies from drying out
Good to Know
Store in tightly covered metal container at room temperature for up to 1 week
Dough can be made up to 2 days ahead and chilled, or shaped cookies can be frozen before baking
Serve at room temperature with coffee, tea, or milk
Common Mistakes
Chill dough fully to avoid sticky, hard-to-handle dough when rolling
Don't overbake to avoid hard, crispy cookies instead of soft ones
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
FAQ
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made up to 2 days ahead and kept chilled in the refrigerator. You can also freeze shaped unbaked cookies for up to 3 months.
What if my dough is too sticky to roll?
Chill the dough longer until firm, and use plenty of flour on your work surface and rolling pin. The dough should feel firm but not hard.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
Store in an airtight metal container at room temperature for up to 1 week. The metal container helps maintain their soft texture better than plastic.