I still remember the first time I baked Molasses Crinkle Cookies in my own kitchen. It was one of those chilly afternoons when the smell of spices and sweet molasses filled the house, promising comfort on a chilly day. The moment I bit into one of these ginger molasses cookies, I was struck by how perfectly soft and chewy they were, with just the right warming spices dancing in every bite. It wasn’t just any cookie—it was a little moment of cozy happiness that brought everyone closer around the counter. That’s exactly what I love about sharing this Molasses Crinkle Cookies recipe with fellow food lovers. It’s approachable, comforting, and brings people together in the warmest way.
As someone who believes home cooking should feel joyful, not intimidating, this recipe fits right into my philosophy at Carmen Wausa. It’s simple enough to whip up on a weekday afternoon but special enough for holiday celebrations. These spiced crinkle cookies offer a soft molasses cookie texture that reminds me of those classic holiday cookie recipes you want to pass down. Over time, through testing and tasting, I found just the right balance between chewy and tender with a beautiful crinkle finish.
I can’t wait for you to try this Molasses Crinkle Cookies recipe yourself and experience that same smile-worthy moment. If you love the cozy flavors of ginger molasses cookies like I do, this one will become a favorite in your recipe collection. If this recipe brings you joy, you’ll love checking out my chewy ginger molasses cookies inspiration from Gimme Some Oven, too—it’s always fun to see different takes on a holiday cookie recipe that shares the same comforting charm.
Ingredients
This Molasses Crinkle Cookies ingredient list is surprisingly simple but delivers incredible comfort! Here’s what you need for a batch that yields soft molasses cookies with the perfect spiced kick:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar, plus extra for rolling
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup molasses (unsulphured for best flavor)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
The secret to amazing Molasses Crinkle Cookies is using real, rich molasses instead of substitutes like syrup. You’ll find the best ingredients for this Molasses Crinkle Cookies at your local grocery store or specialty baking aisle. If you want to splurge on one item for this recipe, make it the molasses—it makes all the difference in depth of flavor and chewiness.
For customization, try swapping half the brown sugar with white for a lighter sweetness, or add a pinch of black pepper for an unexpected warmth in your spiced crinkle cookies. If you need to take a gluten-free route, a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend works well, just be sure to adjust baking soda slightly for rise.
When prepping ingredients, I like to measure flour carefully and sift the spices right into the flour mixture for even distribution—this keeps your gooey molasses crinkle cookies tasting balanced with spice in every bite.
Let’s Make This!
Ready for your own batch of Molasses Crinkle Cookies? Here’s the step-by-step to get those chewy molasses cookies just right. Don’t worry—your Molasses Crinkle Cookies are going to turn out beautifully!
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper. This keeps those soft molasses cookies from sticking and browning too much on the bottoms.
- Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is key—it creates the tender texture in your spiced crinkle cookies.
- Beat in the egg and molasses until smooth and combined. Your dough will already start smelling amazing here!
- Whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Add this dry mix gradually to your wet mixture and stir just until combined. Don’t overmix—this keeps your molasses crinkle cookies soft.
- Cover the dough and chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time makes rolling the dough easier and helps those signature crinkles form in the oven.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then roll in granulated sugar to coat well. This sugar coating creates a beautiful crackled look after baking.
- Place on baking sheets two inches apart—molasses crinkle cookies spread just enough but keep their shape beautifully.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes depending on your oven. In my kitchen, 11 minutes gives soft centers with chewy edges. Look for cracks on top and slightly firm edges but slightly soft centers.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This finishing step lets your molasses crinkle cookies set up without drying out.
Here’s a helpful tip for Molasses Crinkle Cookies success: Don’t skip chilling the dough! It’s the secret behind those perfect cracks and soft chew. Plus, the aroma while baking is pure holiday magic. If your kitchen smells anything like mine, you’re in for a treat.
While your Molasses Crinkle Cookies bake, take a moment to enjoy that warm, spicy scent filling your kitchen. This is where your Molasses Crinkle Cookies transforms into something truly special.
Serving & Presentation
People always smile when I serve this Molasses Crinkle Cookies during holiday gatherings or cozy weekend afternoons. The spiced crinkle cookies are not only a delight to eat but present so beautifully with their snow-dusted powdered sugar crackle top.
For a simple yet elegant touch, place your Molasses Crinkle Cookies on a white ceramic platter sprinkled with a light dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon. Add some fresh sprigs of rosemary or a few bright cranberries for seasonal charm. These chewy molasses cookies also pair wonderfully with a warm cup of chai tea or a glass of milk for a classic combo that feels just right.
This recipe is perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or anytime you want a comforting treat that fills home with warmth. For extra fun, try stacking your Molasses Crinkle Cookies and wrapping them with twine as lovely homemade gifts.
If your family loves them as much as mine does, you might end up making several batches! Leftovers? No problem. Warm these chewy molasses cookies in the microwave for 10 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked softness.
You can also explore variations inspired by these cookies. I’ve tested versions with a hint of orange zest (similar to my Orange Clove Cookies) and also combined them with chocolate chips for a rich twist. If you love peppermint, check out delightful Chocolate Mint Crinkles for a festive spin on classic crinkle cookies.
FAQs
Here’s some of the most common questions I get about Molasses Crinkle Cookies and my warm take on answering each.
Can I make this Molasses Crinkle Cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough freezes beautifully. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before rolling and baking. You can also bake fully, then store cookies in an airtight container for up to five days.
What if I don’t have molasses on hand?
Try looking for unsulphured molasses at larger supermarkets or specialty stores. It’s the ingredient that gives these spiced crinkle cookies their signature chew and rich flavor. If necessary, you can substitute a bit of dark corn syrup mixed with honey but the cookies won’t have the same depth.
How do I know when my Molasses Crinkle Cookies are perfectly done?
Look for cracks and a matte finish on the surface with edges slightly set. Centers will look soft but should spring back gently when touched.
Can I make these cookies vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Swap butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) instead of eggs.
Why does my Molasses Crinkle Cookies sometimes turn out flat?
This usually means the dough was too warm when placed in the oven or baking soda was too old. Chill dough thoroughly and check baking soda freshness for best chewy molasses cookie results.
Can I add mix-ins?
Definitely! Chopped crystallized ginger, nuts, or mini chocolate chips can add extra texture and flavor to your spiced crinkle cookies.
Does the sugar coating affect how the Molasses Crinkle Cookies turn out?
Yes, rolling the dough balls in sugar before baking helps create the classic crinkle look and adds a bit of extra crunch and sparkle on top.
I’ve heard from many fellow food lovers in the kitchen community, like on South Jersey Food Scene, that this recipe is a favorite for its perfect balance of chewy and soft texture. They appreciate how approachable and satisfying the Molasses Crinkle Cookies are for holiday baking.
Why This Molasses Crinkle Cookies Will Become Your New Favorite
This Molasses Crinkle Cookies recipe embodies everything I value in home cooking—approachable ingredients, satisfying flavor, and moments that bring people together. It’s a recipe that welcomes all skill levels and creates those comforting connections we all crave.
Here are my Molasses Crinkle Cookies Success Tips to keep in mind:
- Chill your dough for at least 30 minutes before baking for perfect crinkles.
- Use real unsulphured molasses for the best flavor and chewiness.
- Don’t overbake—cookies should be soft in the center when you take them out.
Through testing, I’ve created several favorite variations, including a chewy ginger molasses cookies twist with extra ginger spice, a holiday cookie recipe version adding orange zest for brightness, and a classic soft molasses cookies batch inspired by Seriously Soft Molasses Cookies – Sally’s Baking.
My spiced crinkle cookies with a hint of cinnamon and clove always get the most smiles at family gatherings. I encourage you to make these Molasses Crinkle Cookies part of your recipe repertoire and share the joy they bring. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.
Please come back and share your delicious results! I love hearing about the comforting meals you’re creating that turn kitchens into places of love and connection. Happy baking, fellow food lovers!
If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t miss my festive Chocolate Cut Out Heart Cookies for another approachable sweet treat that delights every season!
Molasses Crinkle Cookies
These Molasses Crinkle Cookies are soft, chewy, and packed with warm spices, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season or any cozy day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup molasses
- Additional granulated sugar, for rolling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter and 1 cup sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and molasses to the butter mixture, beating until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Shape dough into 1-inch balls, then roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
- Place cookies 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until tops are cracked and edges are set.
- Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
For an extra festive touch, sprinkle a pinch of sanding sugar or cinnamon sugar on top before baking.