Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the molasses, sugar, and butter. Beat until smooth and well combined.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and orange zest, mixing well.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Chill the Dough
Cover the dough and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together and ensures the cookies bake evenly.
Shape and Bake
Roll the dough into balls, about the size of a golf ball. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) of space between them. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown around the edges.
Cool and Enjoy
Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
What to Serve Grandma's Molasses Cookies With
While Grandma's Molasses Cookies are delicious on their own, they pair beautifully with a variety of complementary dishes and drinks.
Cold Milk or Cream: For a comforting duo that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Holiday Coffee: A warm cup of spiced coffee complements the rich, malty flavors of the cookies.
Orange Segments: A juicy orange segment adds a refreshing contrast to the cookies’ warmth.
Top Tips for Perfecting Grandma's Molasses Cookies
Orange Zest: For extra citrus flavor, use the zest of one orange and the juice of half an orange in the recipe.
Chilling the Dough: Chilling the dough ensures the cookies hold their shape and results in a softer texture. Don’t skip this step!
Spice Blends: Experiment with different spice combinations to create unique flavor profiles.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Storage: Store cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat frozen cookies in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
Final Thoughts
There’s no denying the comforting, rich appeal of Grandma's Molasses Cookies. With their warm, spicy flavors and soft, chewy texture, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Plus, their simplicity makes them a great option for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.
So, why not gather your ingredients and try making them today? After all, the way to a happy heart might just be through these creamy, flavorful cookies.