Molasses Cookies. Mrs. C. E. Martin. Recipe

The recipe for Molasses Cookies has a rich history and is beloved for its warm and comforting flavors. These cookies have been a staple in many households for generations, bringing smiles to the faces of family and friends alike. Let's dive into the details of this classic recipe shared by Mrs. C. E. Martin.

Ingredients:
- Whites and yolks of two eggs (beaten separately)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup melted lard and butter
- 1 cup New Orleans molasses
- 1 dessert spoon of ginger
- 1 dessert-spoon soda
- 4 tablespoons boiling water
- Flour to stiffen

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the beaten egg whites and yolks. Add the brown sugar and mix until well incorporated.

3. Melt the lard and butter together and add them to the egg and sugar mixture. Stir well to combine.

4. Pour in the New Orleans molasses and stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.

5. In a small bowl, dissolve the soda in the boiling water. Add this to the molasses mixture and mix well. The mixture may bubble slightly.

6. Gradually add flour to the mixture, a little at a time, stirring after each addition until the dough stiffens. The amount of flour needed may vary, but aim for a dough that is soft and pliable but not overly sticky.

7. Once the dough is ready, roll it into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them to allow for spreading during baking.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and beginning to brown around the edges. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking.

9. Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the cookies cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once cooled, these Molasses Cookies are ready to be enjoyed. They have a delightful combination of sweet and spicy flavors, thanks to the brown sugar, molasses, and ginger. These cookies are perfect for a cozy afternoon treat or a delicious addition to holiday gatherings.

Fun Fact: Molasses, a key ingredient in this recipe, is a thick, dark syrup that is a byproduct of the sugar refining process. It has a distinctive smoky-sweet flavor that adds depth to baked goods like these cookies. Molasses has been used for centuries and was a popular sweetener in colonial America.

Similar Recipes:
1. Gingerbread Cookies: These cookies share a similar warm and spicy flavor profile, making them a perfect sibling to Molasses Cookies. Gingerbread cookies often feature molasses as well, but they typically have more spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.

2. Snickerdoodles: Snickerdoodles are soft and chewy cookies that are rolled in a cinnamon-sugar mixture before baking. While they don't contain molasses like Molasses Cookies, they share a comforting and nostalgic appeal.

3. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies: If you enjoy the texture and heartiness of Molasses Cookies, you might also enjoy oatmeal raisin cookies. These cookies are made with rolled oats, raisins, and often include warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Remember, baking is an art, and you can always experiment with these recipes to suit your taste preferences. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and enjoy the process of making delicious and comforting Molasses Cookies!