This recipe for Spiced Molasses Cookies is a healthier twist on the traditional treat. We use heart-friendly ingredients like whole wheat flour, and less oil and sugar, while retaining the delightful, chewy texture and piquant flavor. And the best part is no one will even know this is a healthier version! These cookies can hold their own at any cookie swap or holiday table!
When we think about cookies, what often comes to mind are the traditional recipes laden with white flour, butter, and tons of sugar. However, in our quest to balance indulgence and well-being, we reimagined the classic chewy ginger molasses cookies with whole wheat flour, less fat, less sugar, and all the holiday flavors!
While we do keep some added sugar - we're still using molasses, plus we add some honey, it's far less that most holiday cookies. Remember that healthier desserts are still desserts, and should be enjoyed in moderation.
That said, make sure to check out our other delicious cookie recipes, like Peppermint Hot Cocoa Cookies, Healthy Thumbprint Cookies, and Cherry Filled Chocolate Truffles.
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Heart Health Benefits of Spiced Molasses Cookies
Our recipe for healthy molasses cookies not only delivers on taste, but also contributes positively to your heart health!
With whole wheat flour as a base, these cookies provide a good source of dietary fiber, which has been linked to a decrease in 'bad' LDL cholesterol levels. Lowered cholesterol is significant in promoting heart health because it reduces the risk of developing heart disease.
The ginger in these cookies is also a heart-friendly ingredient. A substantial body of research suggests that ginger has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects, both valuable in preserving cardiovascular health.
Additionally, these cookies are made with less oil and sugar than traditional recipes. Grapeseed oil is used because of its high levels of polyunsaturated fats and vitamin E - both known to be heart-healthy. Reduced sugar content helps regulate blood glucose levels and prevents a spike in insulin, as well as maintain a healthy heart.
Furthermore, the hero ingredient - molasses - also plays a considerable role in promoting heart health. Rich in potassium, calcium, and magnesium, it may help control blood pressure, while providing a little sweetness.
Overall, these healthy ginger cookies are low in calories, low in fat, and reduced in sugar. With every bite, you're doing your heart - and your tastebuds - a favor.
Ingredients
Our recipe takes the essence of classic cookie making and infuses it with healthier ingredients.
- Whole Wheat Flour
- Honey
- Molasses
- Unsweetened Applesauce
- Grapeseed Oil
- Vanilla Extract
- Cinnamon, Ginger, and Cloves
- Baking Powder
- Salt
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
There is something rewarding about baking your own cookies, especially when they're as healthy and delicious as these healthy ginger cookies. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process.
In a large bowl, combine all the dry ingredients.
In another bowl, combine all the wet ingredients.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients.
Mix well until a dough forms.
Scoop the dough by tablespoon, and roll into a ball. Roll in granulated sugar, if desired.
Place the rolled dough on a lined cookie sheet, about 2 inches apart.
Using the bottom of a drinking glass, or other flat surface, flatten the balls to about ¼ inch thick.
Bake for about 12 minutes. Cool on the cookie sheet for about 5 minutes before moving to a cooling rack.
Hint: I use an actual 1 tablespoon measuring spoon to scoop the dough, but you could also use a small scoop (affiliate link). Spray your spoon or scoop lightly with cooking spray to easily get the dough out of the scoop!
Substitutions
Some good substitutions for spiced molasses cookies are:
- Flour - use whole wheat pastry flour, or all-purpose flour (the latter contains no fiber). This recipe does not work well with almond flour, and has not been tested with gluten free baking blends.
- Oil - use any other neutral oil, like canola oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil
- Honey - use pure maple syrup instead. This substitution will also make this a vegan ginger molasses cookie recipe.
Equipment
This recipe requires nothing special in terms of equipment. You'll need basic measuring cups and spoons, a liquid measure, a mixing bowl and spoon, and some baking sheets with a liner or parchment paper (affiliate links).
I find it helpful to have two sets of measuring spoons, if possible. That way I can use one for liquids and the other for dry measures. Isn't it frustrating when you use your teaspoon to measure honey, only to find you need it to measure baking powder next?!
Storage
Cool the cookies completely, and store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Top tip
Probably double this recipe, because they will not stick around your kitchen long!
FAQ
Unsulphured molasses is the best choice for cookies. It's purer and less processed compared to other types. The naturally sweet, rich, and robust flavor of this molasses variant enhances the taste profile of the cookies, making them delicious and flavorful.
If you're after a healthier type, blackstrap molasses stands out among its counterparts. However, if taste is your top concern, light or dark molasses might be more suitable.
Yes, you can use regular flour instead of whole wheat flour. However, using whole wheat flour contributes to the nutritional content of the cookies, making them a healthier option.
You can use pure maple syrup in place of the honey, without changing the rest of the recipe. Maple syrup will add a delicious flavor to these cookies, too! You can also use brown sugar or white sugar. You may need to add a splash of water or milk if the dough is too dry after mixing.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these healthier baked goods:
You must use the category name, not a URL, in the category field.Pairing
These are my favorite appetizers and accompaniments to serve with spiced molasses cookies:
📖 Recipe
Spiced Molasses Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups Whole Wheat Flour
- 1 tablespoon Ground Ginger
- 2 teaspoon Baking Powder
- 1 teaspoon Cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon Ground Cloves
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- ⅓ cup Molasses
- ¼ cup Grapeseed Oil
- ¼ cup Honey
- ¼ cup Unsweetened Applesauce
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- Optional 2 tbsp Granulated Sugar for coating
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350° F.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, ginger, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine molasses, oil, honey, applesauce, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry, and mix well.
- Form the dough into balls, 1 tablespoon at a time, and roll in granulated sugar, if desired.
- Place on lined baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
- Use the bottom of a glass, or other flat object, to slightly flatten each ball to about ¼ inch thick.
- Bake for 12 minutes.
- Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- Store in an airtight container after cooling completely.
Nutrition
*Nutrition information is an estimate, and will change based on the brand and individual ingredients and amounts you use. This is provided for your convenience only.
Food safety
Safety is our top priority in the kitchen! Always keep these tips in mind.
- Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
- Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
- Wash hands before touching food, and after touching raw meat, your hair, face, pets, etc.
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for longer than 2 hours (or 1 hour if the weather is hot)
- Never leave cooking food unattended
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more guidelines at USDA.gov.
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Nilda Bergmann says
Laura,
My Christmas Cookies this year was your delicious Spiced Molasses Cookies. They are not lacking in flavor at all. It's nice to have a heart healthy cookie for the Holidays.
Thank you and Merry Christmas.
Nilda
Laura Yautz says
So glad you loved these cookies! They're such a great, festive addition to cookie plates! Thanks Nilda, and Merry Christmas!