Bakery Style Molasses Cookies

This Bakery Style Molasses Cookies recipe offers a delightful blend of spices and a soft, chewy texture that will transport you to your favorite bakery. With rich molasses and a sugar-crackled finish, these cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or simply enjoying as a sweet treat at home. Their warm aroma and comforting flavor make them a favorite for all occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves adds depth to the classic molasses flavor.
• Perfect Texture: These cookies are soft and chewy with a slight crisp on the outside, giving you the best of both worlds.
• Versatile Treat: Whether for holiday celebrations or everyday snacking, these cookies fit any occasion perfectly.
• Batch Friendly: With 24 servings per recipe, you can easily share these delicious cookies with friends and family!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools on hand makes baking more enjoyable and efficient. Ensure you gather everything before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and energy while ensuring the butter and sugar are creamed perfectly for a fluffy dough.
• Parchment paper: Prevents cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, ensuring easy removal after baking.

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves

Wet Ingredients

• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 large egg
• 1/4 cup unsulfured molasses
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Coating

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

How to Make Bakery Style Molasses Cookies

Step 1: Prepare Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, salt, baking soda, ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

Beat in the egg, molasses, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Chill the Dough

Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This step enhances flavor and prevents excessive spreading during baking.

Step 6: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Step 7: Shape the Cookies

Scoop about 1 tablespoon of dough and roll it into a ball. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat. Place it on the prepared baking sheet with about 2 inches of space between cookies.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes. The cookies will look slightly soft in the center when removed but will firm up as they cool.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy your Bakery Style Molasses Cookies!

How to Serve Bakery Style Molasses Cookies

Serving Bakery Style Molasses Cookies can elevate your dessert experience. Whether for a holiday gathering or a cozy night in, these cookies can be paired with delightful accompaniments that enhance their rich flavors.

With a Glass of Milk

• Nothing beats the classic combination of cookies and milk. The creamy texture of milk complements the spicy notes of the molasses beautifully.

Pairing with Coffee

• Enjoy your molasses cookies alongside a hot cup of coffee. The bitterness of the coffee balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Create an indulgent treat by sandwiching a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies. This is a fun twist for summer gatherings!

Festive Cookie Platters

• Arrange your Bakery Style Molasses Cookies on a festive platter with other holiday treats. This visually appealing display is perfect for parties.

Dipping in Hot Chocolate

• Dip your warm cookies in hot chocolate for an extra cozy dessert experience. The melty chocolate enhances the flavors even more.

Gift Them to Friends

• Package them in a decorative box as a sweet gift for friends and family. It’s a thoughtful way to share your love for baking!

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How to Perfect Bakery Style Molasses Cookies

To achieve bakery-quality molasses cookies, consider these helpful tips that ensure each batch turns out deliciously soft and chewy.

• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh ground spices enhance the flavor profile, making each bite aromatic and flavorful. Check expiration dates before using.

• Chill the Dough: Refrigerating the dough prevents excessive spreading during baking, resulting in thicker, chewier cookies.

• Don’t Overbake: Remove your cookies from the oven when they still look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool, keeping them soft inside.

• Roll in Sugar: Rolling the cookie dough balls in granulated sugar before baking gives them that signature crackled finish while adding sweetness.

• Store Properly: Keep your baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain freshness and chewiness for days.

Best Side Dishes for Bakery Style Molasses Cookies

Bakery Style Molasses Cookies can be enjoyed with various side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great ideas:

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte: A cozy drink made with espresso, steamed milk, pumpkin puree, and spices—perfect for fall festivities!

2. Cheese Platter: Include sharp cheeses like cheddar or cream cheese spreads that contrast nicely with the sweet molasses flavor.

3. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the molasses cookies.

4. Chocolate Fondue: Melted chocolate served with fruits and marshmallows creates an interactive dessert experience to enjoy alongside your cookies.

5. Spiced Tea: Warm spiced tea enhances the cookie’s spices, making it a comforting pairing during cold months.

6. Cinnamon Applesauce: This sweet side dish provides an apple flavor that complements cinnamon notes in the cookies beautifully.

7. Nut Mix: A mix of roasted nuts adds crunch and contrasts well with the soft texture of molasses cookies.

8. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over your cookies or serve it as a dip for an extra indulgent treat!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bakery Style Molasses Cookies can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are mistakes to watch for:

• Not measuring flour correctly: Using too much flour can lead to dry cookies. Always spoon flour into a measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading. Don’t rush this process; refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
• Overmixing the dough: Overmixing can make cookies tough. Mix just until combined for soft, chewy cookies.
• Baking at the wrong temperature: Ensure your oven is preheated to 350°F (175°C). An incorrect temperature can affect the texture.
• Ignoring cooling time: Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them. This helps them firm up and maintain their shape.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 1 week in the fridge.

Freezing Bakery Style Molasses Cookies

• Place cooled cookies in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Bakery Style Molasses Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie for about 10-15 seconds for a soft treat.
• Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat; cover and warm for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Bakery Style Molasses Cookies special?

These cookies are known for their rich molasses flavor and warming spices. Their soft, chewy texture is perfect for any occasion.

How can I customize my Bakery Style Molasses Cookies?

You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to enhance flavor and texture. Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a twist!

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, but it may change the texture slightly. Start with half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for best results.

Are Bakery Style Molasses Cookies suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! These cookies freeze well, making them perfect for preparing ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

Bakery Style Molasses Cookies are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. They’re perfect for holiday gatherings or as everyday treats. Feel free to customize them with your favorite add-ins! We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the comforting flavors.