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Margaret Miller's Molasses Cookies
Margaret Miller’s Molasses Cookies are a warm, spiced classic with deep, rich flavors from molasses and aromatic hints of cinnamon and ginger. A touch of evaporated cream and vinegar creates an incredibly soft, tender crumb, while the balance of sweetness and spice makes these cookies perfect for holidays or cozy family gatherings. Baked at a gentle 325°F, these cookies are moist, slightly chewy, and comforting, a true nostalgic treat that pairs beautifully with a glass of milk, coffee, or tea.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 36 cookies
Calories 115 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup shortening
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup molasses
  • ¾ cup evaporated cream
  • ¾ tbsp table vinegar
  • 3 cups sifted flour
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions
 

Step 1: Cream Ingredients

  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add Wet Ingredients

  • Beat in the egg, then add molasses and mix well.

Step 3: Combine Cream & Vinegar

  • In a small bowl, mix evaporated cream and vinegar, then stir into the molasses mixture.

Step 4: Prepare Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, and cinnamon.

Step 5: Combine & Mix

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Shape & Bake

  • Drop the dough by teaspoonfuls onto a greased baking sheet.
  • Bake at 325°F for 15 minutes or until lightly golden.

Tips

  • Chill dough for 30 minutes if it feels soft; this helps cookies hold shape.
  • Roll dough balls in granulated sugar before baking for a crackled top.
  • Add a pinch of cloves or nutmeg for deeper spice flavor.
  • Substitute butter for some of the shortening for a richer taste.
  • Do not overbake—remove when just set for soft, chewy cookies.
  • Line sheet pans with parchment to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  • For a thicker cookie, slightly mound the dough instead of flattening.
  • Add a small handful of raisins for a classic variation.
  • Store in airtight container with a slice of bread to keep cookies soft.

Nutrition

Calories: 115kcalCarbohydrates: 17gProtein: 1gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 7mgSodium: 85mgPotassium: 90mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 10IUCalcium: 15mgIron: 0.8mg
Keyword cinnamon cookies, ginger cookies, heirloom, holiday baking, molasses cookies, old-fashioned cookies, spicy cookies, vintage recipe
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