Name: Soft and Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 24 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons ground ginger; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground cloves; ¼ teaspoon salt; ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1 large egg; ¼ cup unsulphured molasses; ¼ cup granulated sugar, for rolling

Craving a cookie that's perfectly soft and chewy, bursting with spicy ginger and caramel-like molasses? You've just landed on the very best Soft and Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies!

Each bite is warmly spiced, irresistibly tender, and rolled in sparkling sugar for that magical holiday crackle. The harmonious blend of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves gives these cookies their signature nostalgic flavor, while rich molasses ensures every bite melts in your mouth.

These cookies come together quickly and require no chilling, making them the ultimate treat for busy bakers, festive parties, or cozy nights in. Inspired by cherished family holiday traditions, they're my all-time favorite for sharing (or keeping all to yourself!).

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Incredibly soft and chewy texture-no dry, crunchy cookies here!
Packed with cozy spices and rich molasses flavor in every bite.
No dough chill time needed for instant cookie satisfaction.
Stays fresh and just as delicious for days, thanks to the molasses.

Key Ingredients for Soft and Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Molasses

Molasses is the heart of these cookies, giving them a deep, rich flavor and that characteristic chewiness. You'll want to use unsulphured molasses (like Grandma's brand) for the best classic taste. Avoid blackstrap molasses, which is much more bitter. If you don't have molasses, dark corn syrup can give a similar texture, though the flavor will be milder.

Ground Ginger

Bold ground ginger provides that unmistakable, zesty warmth that sets these cookies apart. For even more ginger bite, some bakers like to add a spoonful of chopped crystallized ginger. Fresh grated ginger can be used in a pinch, but the flavor will be slightly different and less intense.

Brown Sugar

Brown sugar not only adds sweetness but also infuses moisture, making the cookies soft and chewy. Light or dark brown sugar both work; dark brown sugar will give an even richer, deeper flavor. If you only have white sugar, try adding a tablespoon of molasses to mimic brown sugar.

Cinnamon and Cloves

A blend of warm cinnamon and aromatic cloves elevates the spicy-sweet flavor profile. They give these cookies that classic holiday feel. You can reduce or omit cloves if you prefer a milder spice, or swap in a pumpkin pie spice blend for a fun twist.

Butter

Softened unsalted butter makes the base luxuriously tender. If using salted butter, simply omit the added salt from the recipe. For a dairy-free variation, use your favorite plant-based stick butter.

Soft and Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies cooking process

Instructions for Soft and Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Preheat and Prep

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two large baking sheets with parchment paper. This ensures your cookies bake evenly and come off the sheet with ease.

Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. This helps distribute the spices so every cookie is deliciously flavorful.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This step creates that perfectly tender texture we crave.

Add Wet Ingredients

Mix in the egg and molasses until the dough is smooth and evenly combined. Scrape down the bowl as needed to catch every bit.

Combine Wet and Dry

Gradually mix in the flour mixture just until a soft dough forms. Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies ultra tender.

Shape and Roll

Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough and roll them between your hands. Toss each dough ball in granulated sugar to coat-this creates a sweet, sparkly finish and classic crackled top.

Bake

Arrange dough balls on the lined baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges look just set but the centers are still soft and puffy. Do not overbake to keep them chewy!

Cool

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. They will firm up yet stay soft and chewy on the inside.

Recipe Variations

Add Some Chocolate

Love chocolate? Toss in ½ cup of dark or semisweet chocolate chips for a rich, decadent twist. The chocolate pairs beautifully with the spicy-sweet flavors.

Citrus Zest Boost

Introduce a bright note by adding a teaspoon of fresh orange zest to the dough. It complements the spices and makes these cookies extra festive, especially for holiday gatherings.

Gluten-Free Option

Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Check for xanthan gum in the mix to help mimic the chewy texture-your gluten-free friends will thank you!

Vegan-Friendly

Replace the butter with a vegan stick butter and swap the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water, rested for 5 minutes). The cookies will still come out just as chewy and satisfying.

Extra Ginger

For an even bolder ginger punch, fold in ¼ cup finely chopped crystallized ginger to the dough before baking. This adds heat, chew, and bursts of spicy-sweet flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These Soft and Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies are delicious all on their own, but try serving them with a mug of hot coffee, chai tea, or creamy hot chocolate for a cozy treat. For a festive touch, arrange on a platter with other holiday cookies, or sandwich a bit of vanilla ice cream between two cookies for an incredible dessert!

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days-they'll stay soft and delectable. To refresh, microwave a cookie for 8-10 seconds for just-baked warmth. For longer storage, freeze baked cookies or dough balls for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions About Soft and Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies (FAQ)

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it?

A: Absolutely! Prepare the dough up to 48 hours in advance, wrap tightly, and refrigerate. Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before scooping and baking.

Q: Why are my cookies not crackling on top?

A: Make sure to roll each dough ball in sugar and bake at the right temperature. The sugar coating and correct oven heat help create that signature crackle.

Q: Can I freeze the baked cookies?

A: Yes! Freeze the cooled cookies in a single layer, then transfer to an airtight container. They'll keep for up to 3 months-just thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Soft and Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies are everything you want in a classic holiday (or anytime!) treat: beautifully spiced, deeply flavored, and wonderfully tender. Give this recipe a try-your kitchen will smell amazing and your tastebuds will thank you. Don't forget to leave a comment and rating below if you make them!