Introduction
If you’re looking to indulge in a delightful treat that captures the essence of warm spices and rich flavors, this cookie recipe is for you! Combining the sweetness of brown sugar and molasses with a medley of spices, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Not only are they easy to make, but they also offer a cozy taste that will leave everyone asking for more.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
¾ cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
½ cup sugar
2 eggs
⅓ cup molasses
2 teaspoons vanilla
3 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon ground pepper
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup coarse sugar
Prep Time
The preparation for these delicious cookies involves some careful mixing and chilling. Set aside at least 1 hour for chilling the batter, but if you can plan ahead, refrigerating it overnight will enhance the flavors.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 12-14 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Yield: Depending on the size, this recipe typically makes about 24 cookies.
Follow the instructions carefully to create a batch of these mouthwatering cookies. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share them with friends and family!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Creaming the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar for about 3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 2: Adding Eggs and Liquid Ingredients
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to incorporate each egg fully before adding the next. Once the eggs are mixed in, add the molasses and blend. Finally, mix in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 3: Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground ginger, ground cloves, ground pepper, and salt until well combined.
Step 4: Combining Mixtures
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, stirring just until the flour is fully incorporated into the wet ingredients. Avoid over-mixing to maintain a tender texture.
Step 5: Chilling the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the batter for at least one hour or overnight for the best results.
Step 6: Preparing to Bake
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). Line a cookie sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 7: Shaping the Cookies
Using a regular cookie scoop or an ice cream scoop, portion out the dough. Roll each scoop into a ball, then roll the ball in coarse sugar to coat. Place the coated dough balls on the prepared cookie sheet, spacing them apart.
Step 8: Baking the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 14 minutes, starting to check for doneness at the 10-minute mark. If necessary, add 1 to 2 additional minutes of baking time until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft.
Step 9: Cooling the Cookies
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the cookie sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack or enjoying them warm!
Notes
Refrigeration Time
Chilling the dough helps stabilize the cookies, improving their shape and texture while baking.
Adjusting Spices
Feel free to adjust the spices according to your personal taste. Adding more ginger or cloves can enhance the flavor if desired.
Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week to maintain freshness.
Freezing Option
You can freeze the unbaked cookie dough for later use. Just scoop the dough into balls, roll in sugar, and freeze on a baking tray before transferring to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Cook techniques
Creaming Butter and Sugars
Creaming the butter with brown sugar and granulated sugar is essential for creating a light and fluffy texture in your cookies. This process incorporates air into the mixture, giving the cookies a tender structure.
Incorporating Eggs
Add eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next. This method helps to maintain the emulsion and ensures even distribution of moisture in the batter.
Whisking Dry Ingredients
Whisking together flour, baking soda, and spices in a separate bowl helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and seasonings throughout the batter, ensuring balanced flavor in every bite.
Chilling the Dough
Refrigerating the cookie dough for at least an hour or overnight helps to firm it up, making it easier to scoop and shape. Chilling also enhances the flavors and prevents excessive spreading during baking.
Rolling in Coarse Sugar
Rolling the cookie balls in coarse sugar before baking adds a delightful texture and an appealing sparkle to the finished cookies, enhancing their visual appeal.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake the cookies at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, checking for doneness around the 10-minute mark. The cookies will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so it’s essential to avoid overbaking.
Cooling on the Cookie Sheet
Allowing the cookies to cool on the cookie sheet before transferring them to a wire rack helps them set and maintain their shape, preventing them from falling apart.
FAQ
Can I substitute the butter with margarine?
Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, but it may affect the flavor and texture of the cookies slightly.
What can I use instead of molasses?
If you don’t have molasses, you can use a combination of brown sugar and honey or maple syrup as a substitute, though the flavor will differ.
How should I store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, the cookie dough can be frozen. Scoop the dough into balls, freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer the frozen balls into a zip-top bag for longer storage. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a couple of minutes to the baking time.
What spices can I add for more flavor?
You can experiment with additional spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor, adjusting the amounts to your preference.
Conclusion
The combination of rich molasses, warm spices, and a hint of pepper in these cookies creates a delightful and unique flavor profile. The texture is perfectly chewy, making them a comforting treat that’s perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. Allowing the dough to rest enhances the flavors even further, resulting in cookies that are sure to impress.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Spiced Pumpkin Cookies
Substitute some of the flour for canned pumpkin puree and add pumpkin pie spices for a seasonal twist.
Chocolate Chip Ginger Cookies
Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips to balance the spices with sweetness for an extra decadent treat.
Nutty Molasses Cookies
Incorporate chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans into the dough for added texture and flavor.
Maple Iced Cookies
Top the cooled cookies with a maple glaze for a sweet and aromatic finish that pairs perfectly with ginger.
Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies
Add oats and dried cranberries to the dough for a chewy cookie with a tangy twist.
