Crackle Top Molasses Cookies

Name: Crackle Top Molasses Cookies
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 60 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp ground ginger; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground cloves; 1/2 tsp salt; 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup dark brown sugar (packed); 1 large egg; 1/4 cup molasses; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

60 min 24 cookies Easy

All Recipes

Indulge in the warm, spicy flavours of crackle top molasses cookies, perfect for cozy evenings.

Prep

20 min

Cook

10 min

Total

60 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

There's nothing quite like the nostalgic aroma of molasses cookies baking in the oven. These crackle top molasses cookies take you back to simpler times with their rich, spicy flavour and satisfying crunch. The combination of molasses, ginger, and cinnamon creates a cookie that's both comforting and delightfully unique. This version of the classic molasses cookie is designed to provide the perfect balance of softness and crisp texture. The secret? A light coating of sugar before baking that gives each cookie its signature crackled top. Ideal for anyone who enjoys a classic cookie with a twist, these treats are sure to become a favourite in your home.

Instructions

Preheat oven

Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Pro tip: Using parchment paper helps the cookies bake evenly and prevents sticking.

Mix dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Set aside.

Pro tip: Whisking aerates the flour and helps evenly distribute the spices.

Cream butter and sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Pro tip: Beating the butter and sugar well helps create a tender cookie.

Add wet ingredients

Add the egg and molasses to the butter mixture. Beat until fully incorporated.

Pro tip: Ensure the egg is at room temperature for better mixing.

Combine mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined.

Pro tip: Avoid overmixing to keep the cookies tender.

Chill the dough

Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes to make it easier to handle.

Pro tip: Chilling helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Shape and roll cookies

Scoop tablespoons of dough and roll into balls. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.

Pro tip: Rolling in sugar gives the cookies their crackled appearance.

Bake

Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 5 cm (2 inches) apart. Bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cookies are set and the tops are crackled.

Pro tip: The cookies should be soft in the centre when removed from the oven; they will firm up as they cool.

Cool

Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Pro tip: Cooling on the rack prevents the bottoms from becoming soggy.

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Tips & Tricks

For a stronger molasses flavour, use dark molasses.
Chill the dough for easier handling and better crackles.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes molasses cookies crackle?

Rolling the dough in granulated sugar before baking causes the surface to crackle as the cookies spread.

Can I use light molasses in this recipe?

Yes, you can use light molasses, but the flavour will be milder compared to using dark molasses.

How long do crackle top molasses cookies last?

Stored in an airtight container, they last up to a week at room temperature or up to three months in the freezer.

What can I pair with these cookies?

These cookies pair well with tea, coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

How many calories are in a crackle top molasses cookie?

Each cookie contains approximately 120 calories.

What substitutions can I make?

You can substitute the spices according to preference or use whole wheat flour for a denser texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these crackle top molasses cookies with a warm mug of tea or coffee for the ultimate cozy experience. They also pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an elevated dessert. These cookies can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to three months, and simply thaw at room temperature when you're ready to enjoy them.