Molasses Cookies: A Classic Family Recipe Passed Down Through Four Generations

 Virginia’s Molasses Cookies: A Classic Family Recipe Passed Down Through Four Generations

There's something magical about a cookie recipe that survives the test of time. Virginia’s Molasses Cookies aren’t just baked goods—they’re edible nostalgia. Handed down through four generations, this old-fashioned treat captures the warmth of home, the coziness of holidays, and the sweet spice of tradition in every bite. Soft in the center, slightly crisp around the edges, and perfectly spiced, these cookies are the kind that disappear fast and are remembered fondly.

Whether you're searching for the best molasses cookie recipe, a fall cookie classic, or simply something special to add to your dessert rotation, Virginia’s Molasses Cookies deliver on flavor, texture, and simplicity.

Let’s dive into the full recipe, with pro tips, ingredient insights, and serving suggestions to help you make the most of this beloved heirloom.

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📝 Ingredients and Their Roles

Understanding each ingredient's role can help you bake with confidence and ensure every batch turns out perfectly:

¾ cup shortening (a blend of 1 stick margarine and ½ stick butter recommended)

→ Shortening creates a soft, tender texture, while the butter adds rich flavor. This combination gives the cookies their perfect balance of chew and crispness.

1 cup granulated sugar

→ Sweetens the dough and helps the cookies develop a beautifully golden, slightly crisp exterior.

¼ cup molasses (heaping)

→ The star of the show. Molasses gives these cookies their deep, warm flavor and moist, chewy texture.

1 large egg

→ Adds structure and richness, helping to bind the ingredients together.

2 tsp baking soda

→ Acts as a leavening agent, ensuring the cookies rise and develop a soft, cakey middle.

2¼ cups all-purpose flour

→ Provides the structural base of the dough. The amount is just right to keep the cookies soft, not dry.

¾ tsp ground cloves

→ Adds a warm, slightly peppery spice that pairs beautifully with molasses.

½ tsp ground ginger

→ Offers a gentle kick and brightness to balance the richness of molasses.

1 tsp ground cinnamon

→ Gives the cookies their classic spiced warmth and enhances the aroma.

½ tsp salt

→ Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.

Extra sugar for rolling

→ Creates a delightful sparkling crunch on the outside of each cookie.

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy directions to bake the perfect molasses cookies every time:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare a well-greased cookie sheet or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

2. Cream together the shortening and sugar in a large mixing bowl.

Beat until light and fluffy—this step ensures your cookies are soft and tender.

3. Add the molasses and blend thoroughly.

Use a spatula to scrape the sides of the bowl, ensuring everything mixes evenly.

4. Beat in the egg until the mixture is smooth and uniform.

5. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, and spices (cloves, ginger, cinnamon).

This distributes the leavening agent and spices evenly throughout the dough.

6. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.

Stir until just combined—don’t overmix.

7. Form the dough into 1-inch balls using your hands or a cookie scoop.

8. Roll each ball in granulated sugar, ensuring even coating.

9. Place the balls on the prepared cookie sheet, about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.

10. Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a juice glass dipped in sugar. This gives the cookies their signature look and a nice crunch on top.

11. Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly puffed but soft.

12. Remove immediately from the cookie sheet and cool on wire racks or a clean kitchen towel.

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💡 Why This Recipe Is Loved

Rich molasses flavor with the perfect balance of spices

Tender yet chewy texture

Quick and easy to prepare with pantry staples

Holds its own in cookie swaps, holiday platters, and bake sales

A beloved family recipe that brings people together

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⭐ Pro Tips for Perfect Molasses Cookies

Use fresh spices. Old ground spices lose their potency—fresh cloves, ginger, and cinnamon make a big difference.

Don’t overbake. The cookies should look slightly underdone in the center when you pull them out. They’ll continue to set as they cool.

Want extra softness? Store cooled cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to maintain moisture.

Double the batch. These cookies freeze beautifully—perfect for prepping ahead.

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🍽️ Serving Suggestions

These cookies are incredibly versatile. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy them:

With a cup of hot tea or coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.

As an ice cream sandwich—pair two cookies with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.

Drizzled with white chocolate or dipped halfway in dark chocolate for an elegant twist.

Wrapped in cellophane with ribbon—they make the perfect homemade holiday gift.

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🎯 Conclusion: A Cookie That Deserves a Place in Every Kitchen

If you're looking for a recipe that delivers both flavor and nostalgia, Virginia’s Molasses Cookies are your answer. They're simple to make, use everyday ingredients, and are packed with cozy spices that feel like a hug in cookie form. Whether you're baking for your family, gifting friends, or simply treating yourself, these cookies are sure to impress.

Start a tradition in your kitchen—one that might just be passed down for generations to come.

Try Virginia’s Molasses Cookies today and taste the timeless charm of a famil

y favorite!

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📌 Don’t forget to save this recipe, share it with your baking group, and leave a comment if it becomes a favorite in your home, too!