Ginger molasses cookies remind me of winter afternoons when the house smelled like cinnamon and clove and the oven was the warmest place to be. The first time I made them I was just looking for something cozy and soft and I ended up with a batch so good I made them again the next day just to share with friends.

They’ve since become a seasonal favorite but honestly I bake them all year long because they’re that good. The deep molasses flavor the chewiness that comes from brown sugar and the warm spice blend all make these cookies a classic that never goes out of style.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Unsalted butter – Adds richness and keeps the cookies soft
Brown sugar – Brings sweetness and helps create that chewy texture
Molasses – The deep dark flavor that makes these cookies so iconic
Egg – Binds everything together and gives structure
All-purpose flour – The base that holds the dough together
Baking soda – Helps the cookies spread and puff slightly
Ground ginger – The star spice that gives the cookie its signature zing
Ground cinnamon – Adds cozy warmth
Ground cloves – A touch of bold spice to deepen the flavor
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the spice
Granulated sugar – For rolling and giving that slight sparkle and crunch on the outside

Tools You’ll Need

Mixing bowls – For separating wet and dry ingredients
Hand mixer or stand mixer – Makes creaming butter and sugar easy and smooth
Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures the right ratios for spice and sweetness
Spatula – Helps scrape and mix the dough efficiently
Baking sheet – Holds the cookies while they spread and bake
Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and helps cookies bake evenly
Cookie scoop – Gives consistent cookie sizes for even baking
Cooling rack – Allows the cookies to cool with crisp edges and chewy centers

Instructions

Step 1:

I begin by preheating the oven to 350°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2:

In a large bowl I cream the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy then I beat in the molasses and egg until smooth.

Step 3:

In another bowl I whisk together the flour baking soda ginger cinnamon cloves and salt to evenly distribute the spices.

Step 4:

I gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients just until combined and I don’t overmix to keep the cookies soft.

Step 5:

Using a cookie scoop I shape the dough into balls then roll each one in granulated sugar before placing them a few inches apart on the baking sheet.

Step 6:

I bake the cookies for about 9 to 11 minutes until the edges are set but the centers still look slightly underdone because they’ll continue to cook on the sheet.

Step 7:

After letting them cool on the sheet for a couple of minutes I move them to a wire rack to finish cooling and to keep their chewy centers intact.

Tips

If you want thicker cookies chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking. I sometimes add a little orange zest to brighten the flavor or use a sprinkle of sea salt on top for contrast. And don’t skip the sugar roll—it gives them that beautiful crackled finish.

Ways to Serve

These cookies are amazing with a hot drink like chai tea or coffee and they’re also perfect for cookie swaps or holiday gift boxes. I love making ice cream sandwiches with them too using vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a dreamy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Ginger Molasses Cookies?

Yes you can freeze both the dough and the baked cookies. Just thaw and bake or enjoy straight from the freezer!

Can I make these cookies gluten free?

Yes just use a 1:1 gluten free baking flour blend for great results.

Do they stay soft after baking?

Absolutely! Store them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them chewy for days.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you bake a batch of these Ginger Molasses Cookies soon and share them with someone who needs a little extra warmth and comfort. They’re easy satisfying and full of that nostalgic spiced flavor we all love.

Happy Cooking!