Introduction
Baking is an art that combines science and creativity, and this delightful recipe is a perfect example of how the right ingredients can come together to create something truly special. This treat combines the warm flavors of molasses, spices, and raisins to create a comforting snack that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing for a family gathering or simply indulging in a moment of self-care, these logs will surely satisfy your cravings.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
½ cup unsalted butter (113 grams), room temperature (1 stick)
1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
⅓ cup unsulphured molasses (113 grams)
2 large eggs (100 grams), room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (4 grams)
2½ cups all-purpose flour (300 grams)
1 teaspoon baking powder (4 grams)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup raisins (149 grams)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes
Yield: 24 servings
Enjoy the process of making these sweet delights, and delight in the delicious aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake to perfection!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for baking.
Step 2: Cream the Butter Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer to cream together ½ cup (113 grams) of unsalted butter, 1 cup (200 grams) of granulated sugar, and ⅓ cup (113 grams) of unsulphured molasses until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in 2 large eggs (100 grams) that are at room temperature and add 1 teaspoon (4 grams) of pure vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2½ cups (300 grams) of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon (4 grams) of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ⅛ teaspoon of ground cloves.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture while beating on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Incorporate Raisins
Fold in 1 cup (149 grams) of raisins into the dough, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 7: Shape the Dough
Divide the dough into 2 equal sections, weighing about 494 grams each. Roll each section into a log approximately 12 inches long.
Step 8: Prepare for Baking
On a large baking sheet, place the logs lengthwise. Flatten each log to a thickness of about ¾ inch to promote even baking.
Step 9: Bake the Logs
Bake the logs in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, or until they are puffed up and have slight cracks in the middle.
Step 10: Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the logs from the oven and let them cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, slice the logs diagonally into rectangles.
Notes
Note 1: Measuring Ingredients
Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best results, especially the flour and sugar.
Note 2: Room Temperature Ingredients
Using room temperature butter and eggs helps them combine more smoothly, resulting in a better texture.
Note 3: Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Note 4: Variations
Feel free to substitute the raisins with other dried fruits or nuts according to your preference for added variety.
Cook techniques
Creaming
Creaming is a technique used to mix ingredients like butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which helps create a light and tender texture in the final baked goods.
Whisking
Whisking involves rapidly stirring dry ingredients together to ensure they are evenly combined. This technique helps to aerate the flour and evenly distribute leavening agents, spices, and salt throughout the mixture.
Incorporating Wet and Dry Ingredients
When combining wet and dry ingredients, add the wet mixture to the dry mixture gradually while mixing on low speed. This prevents the formation of lumps and ensures a smoother batter.
Shaping
Shaping involves forming the dough into specific shapes, such as logs in this recipe. This can be done by rolling the dough with your hands and ensuring the shapes are uniform for even baking.
Baking
When baking, it’s essential to preheat the oven to the correct temperature. Proper baking ensures that ingredients react appropriately, leading to the desired texture and flavor in the final product.
Cooling
Allowing baked goods to cool before slicing is crucial. This helps the structure set and prevents them from becoming too soft or falling apart when cut.
FAQ
Why is it important to cream the butter and sugar?
Creaming butter and sugar together incorporates air, which helps the baked goods rise and results in a lighter texture.
Can I substitute the raisins for another ingredient?
Yes, you can substitute raisins with other dried fruits like cranberries, chopped dates, or nuts for different flavors and textures.
What is the purpose of using molasses in this recipe?
Molasses adds sweetness, moisture, and a rich flavor, as well as contributing to the dark color of the baked goods.
How do I know when the logs are baked properly?
The logs should be puffed up with slight cracks in the middle. They should feel firm but spring back slightly when touched.
Why should I let the logs cool before slicing?
Cooling allows the structure to set, which makes it easier to slice without falling apart or becoming too mushy.
Conclusion
This recipe creates a delightful treat that beautifully combines the rich flavors of molasses, spices, and raisins. The result is a soft, chewy cookie-like snack that is perfect for any occasion. Enjoy these delicious baked logs as a comforting dessert or a satisfying treat during your day.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cinnamon Swirl Cookies
Add layers of cinnamon sugar to the dough before rolling it into logs for a delightful cinnamon swirl effect.
Oatmeal Raisin Bars
Incorporate rolled oats into the mixture along with the raisins for an oatmeal raisin twist on the original recipe.
Chocolate Chip Logs
Swap out raisins for chocolate chips to create a decadent chocolate chip variation that will please any chocolate lover.
Nutty Delight Logs
Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans along with the raisins for added crunch and flavor.
Spiced Pumpkin Logs
Substitute some of the butter with pure pumpkin puree and add extra spices for a seasonal twist to your baked logs.
Fruity Almond Logs
Replace the raisins with chopped dried fruits such as apricots or cranberries, and add slivered almonds for a delightful fruity flavor.
