Molasses Crackle Cookies
This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure policy.
Molasses is a timeless Christmas flavor that brings warmth and richness to holiday baking. Its deep, sweet flavor pairs perfectly with classic spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, making it a staple in festive treats. Molasses also adds a moist, chewy texture to cookies and breads, which is why it’s so cherished this time of year. Today’s Molasses Crackle Cookies combine all these beloved flavors into one irresistible holiday treat!
This cookie recipe is a delightful home version of the iconic treat from Disney’s Wilderness Lodge in Florida. Once the dough is prepared, each cookie is rolled in sugar before baking, giving them that signature crackled top that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Unlike traditional cookies that use butter, this recipe uses canola oil as the fat. Its neutral flavor allows the warm, spiced flavors of molasses and cinnamon to truly shine. Canola oil also helps the cookies retain moisture, ensuring they stay soft and fresh for days—perfect for savoring or sharing during the holiday season!
Ingredients for Molasses Crackle Cookies
- CANOLA OIL
- SUGAR
- MOLASSES
- EGG
- ALL-PURPOSE FLOUR
- BAKING SODA
- GROUND GINGER
- GROUND CINNAMON
- GROUND CLOVE
Instructions for Chewy Molasses Crackle Cookies
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the oil and 1 3/4 cups of sugar until smooth. Add the molasses and egg, then mix until the ingredients are fully blended.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until fully combined.
Place the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar in a small bowl. Use a large cookie scoop or your hands to form the cookie dough into 2-inch balls. Roll each ball in the sugar to coat, then place them on the prepared baking sheets at least 2 inches apart.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes. At the 8-minute mark, check the cookies. If they are still mounded, gently press them with a flat spatula to help them flatten slightly. Continue baking until the cookies are golden brown.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These soft, spiced molasses cookies are perfect for holiday baking or enjoying any time you’re craving a classic, chewy treat!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do the cookies crackle on top?
The crackle on these cookies happens because the outer layer sets quickly in the oven while the inside continues to expand. Rolling the dough in sugar enhances this effect by creating a textured crust that highlights the cracks.
Can I use butter instead of canola oil?
Yes, you can substitute butter for canola oil if desired. Keep in mind that the cookies will have a richer flavor and slightly firmer texture, and may not stay as soft for as long as those made with oil.
What type of molasses should I use?
Use unsulphured molasses for the best flavor. Avoid blackstrap molasses, as it’s more bitter and less sweet, which may alter the taste of the cookies.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Let the dough sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before shaping to make it easier to handle.
Can I freeze the dough?
Absolutely. Roll the dough into balls, but don’t coat them in sugar yet. Freeze the balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When ready to bake, let them thaw slightly, roll in sugar, and bake as directed.
How do I store these cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the tops are set and no longer look wet, but the centers are still soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking for the best texture.
FOR MORE RECIPES LIKE THIS, TRY:
Molasses Crackle Cookies
Real Mom Kitchen
Ingredients
- 1 cup canola oil
- 2 ¼ cups sugar divided
- ⅓ cup molasses
- 1 egg
- 3 cups flour
- 1 Tbsp baking soda
- 1 Tbsp ground ginger
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground clove
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350˚F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the oil with 1 3/4 cups of the sugar.
- Add in the molasses and egg. Mix together until blended.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon and clove. Add into the molasses mixture and mix until combined.
- Place the remaining 1/2 cup sugar in small bowl.
- Use a large cookie scoop or with hand form 2-inch balls, then roll in sugar. Place on baking sheets at least 2 inches apart.
- Bake at 350˚F 10 to 12 minutes, but at 8 minutes check on the cookies. If the cookies are still in a mound shape, gently press with a flat spatula to help flatten the cookie. Then continue cooking until golden brown.
Nutrition
Recipe adapted from Disney Parks.
