Chewy Molasses Cookies

There’s something magical about the smell of ginger cookies baking in the oven. The warm aroma of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses wafting through the house evokes memories of holiday gatherings, cozy winter evenings, and the joy of creating something special in the kitchen. For me, ginger cookies hold an extra layer of nostalgia, tied to a beloved cookbook from my childhood: Company’s Coming Kids.

Jump to Recipe

When I was a kid, someone gifted our family this recipe book, and it quickly became a favorite in our home. The recipes were approachable, fun, and perfect for kids just starting to explore the kitchen. My siblings and I spent countless afternoons flipping through its pages, but there was one recipe that stood out above the rest—Ginger Crinkles on page 37.

Ginger Crinkles were unlike any other cookie I’d tasted at the time. They were chewy, spiced, and deeply flavorful, with that signature molasses tang that balanced perfectly with the sweetness. Every time we made them, the process felt like an event. Measuring out the sticky molasses, rolling the dough into sugar-coated balls, and watching them puff up and crackle in the oven became a tradition.

Now, years later, I find myself sharing that same recipe with my own kids. Baking Ginger Crinkles together has become a cherished family tradition, especially during the holiday season.

The Allure of Chewy Ginger Molasses Cookies

Molasses cookies, especially the chewy variety, are a quintessential holiday treat. While crisp ginger snaps have their place, there’s something irresistible about a soft, chewy molasses cookie that practically melts in your mouth. The texture, combined with the perfect balance of spices, makes them a standout on any cookie tray.

Molasses is the unsung hero of these cookies, giving them their signature chewiness and depth of flavor. Its rich, slightly bitter undertones play beautifully with the warm spices of ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. The sugar coating adds a subtle crunch and a hint of sparkle, making each cookie feel festive.

A Holiday Tradition

For many families, molasses cookies are synonymous with the holidays. Their spicy aroma fills kitchens with the scent of Christmas, and their classic flavors pair perfectly with other seasonal favorites like eggnog, hot cocoa, or mulled cider. Whether served at a holiday party, left out for Santa, or enjoyed by the fire, ginger molasses cookies are a treat that brings people together.

Why Ginger Cookies Are a Classic

Ginger cookies have been a holiday favorite for generations, and for good reason. Their history can be traced back to gingerbread, which originated in Europe during the Middle Ages. Ginger was valued not only for its flavor but also for its supposed medicinal properties. Over time, gingerbread evolved into a variety of forms, from spiced cakes to crisp cookies, and eventually into the soft, chewy cookies we know and love today.

The spices used in ginger cookies—ginger, cinnamon, and cloves—are often referred to as “warming spices.” They evoke feelings of comfort and nostalgia, making them perfect for the colder months. The addition of molasses, a common ingredient in early American baking, gives these cookies a distinctively rich flavor that sets them apart from other holiday treats.

Sharing the Tradition

Baking chewy ginger molasses cookies isn’t just about making something delicious; it’s about creating memories. When I bake these cookies with my kids, I see the same joy and wonder I felt as a child. It’s a reminder that food has the power to connect us—to our past, to our loved ones, and to the traditions we hold dear.

Whether you’re making these cookies for the first time or revisiting an old favorite, I hope they bring a little extra warmth and joy to your holiday season. And if you have kids, let them get involved in the process. Baking together is a wonderful way to create lasting memories and pass down cherished traditions.

Conclusion

Chewy ginger molasses cookies, like the Ginger Crinkles from Company’s Coming Kids, are more than just a treat—they’re a symbol of togetherness, tradition, and the simple joys of the holiday season. Their timeless flavor and festive appearance make them a must-have on any holiday cookie platter.

So this year, grab your apron, pull out the molasses, and gather your loved ones for a baking session. Whether you’re rekindling an old tradition or starting a new one, these cookies are sure to bring a little extra magic to your holiday celebrations. Looking for more decadent delights for your sweet tooth? Check out our chocolate marshmallow cookies here!

The Recipe: Ginger Crinkles