Why You’ll Love this Gluten-Free Soft Molasses Cookies Recipe
You’ll absolutely love this Gluten-Free Soft Molasses Cookies recipe for several reasons.
First, the rich flavor of molasses combined with warm spices like cinnamon and ginger creates a cozy, comforting taste that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, these cookies are incredibly soft and chewy, making them a delightful treat for both kids and adults.
I also appreciate that they’re gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy them without worry. The blend of chestnut flour and other gluten-free flours gives these cookies a unique texture that’s both satisfying and delicious.
And let’s not forget how easy they’re to make! You’ll find yourself whipping up a batch to share with friends and family in no time. Trust me, they’ll be a hit.
Ingredients of Gluten-Free Soft Molasses Cookies
When it comes to baking gluten-free cookies, the right ingredients can make all the difference. This Gluten-Free Soft Molasses Cookies recipe showcases a delightful mix of flavors and textures that will have your taste buds dancing.
With a cozy combination of spices and the rich sweetness of molasses, these cookies aren’t just a treat; they’re a warm hug in cookie form. Plus, they’re gluten-free, so they can be enjoyed by everyone.
Let’s explore the list of ingredients you’ll need to whip up these delicious cookies.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dark molasses
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 cups chestnut flour
- 1/2 cup arrowroot flour
- 1 cup brown rice flour
- 1 1/2 cups sorghum flour
- 3 teaspoons baking soda
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon clove
- 1/2 teaspoon allspice
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Now, before you start gathering these ingredients, let’s chat a bit about the flours.
Chestnut flour is a star player in this recipe, offering a unique flavor and moisture that really elevates the cookies. However, if you’re not a fan of its strong taste, feel free to tweak the ratios of the flours.
Maybe you want a little more brown rice flour for that classic cookie texture, or perhaps a touch more sorghum for added sweetness. The beauty of baking is experimenting, right?
Just remember, the consistency of the dough is key, so you want it to be stiff enough to roll out nicely. Happy baking!
How to Make Gluten-Free Soft Molasses Cookies
Making Gluten-Free Soft Molasses Cookies is a delightful journey that starts with a few simple steps. First, grab that 1 cup of butter and 1 cup of brown sugar. In a mixing bowl, cream them together until they’re smooth and fluffy. It’s like a mini workout for your arms, but trust me, it’s worth it—this is where the magic begins.
Once that buttery goodness is ready, crack in 1 large egg and sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix it all together, and then it’s time to add a cozy touch: 1 cup of dark molasses and 1 cup of buttermilk. Stir until everything blends beautifully. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, and you might find yourself doing a little dance. Just me? Okay.
Now, let’s talk about the flours, because they’re the unsung heroes of this cookie recipe. Take your time sifting together the 2 cups of chestnut flour, 1/2 cup of arrowroot flour, 1 cup of brown rice flour, 1 1/2 cups of sorghum flour, 3 teaspoons of baking soda, and all those lovely spices—2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 2 teaspoons of ginger, 1/2 teaspoon each of clove, allspice, and nutmeg.
Sifting can be a bit of a hassle, but it helps break up any lumps in the chestnut flour, which can be a bit of a diva. Once your flour mixture is ready, add about 3 cups of it to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth. If you’re feeling fancy, you can use an electric mixer, but I often find it easier just to use a sturdy wooden spoon.
As you mix in the last bit of flour, the dough will start to become quite stiff. You might even need to roll up your sleeves and give it some elbow grease. Cover that dough and let it chill in the fridge overnight—trust me, this wait will pay off.
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 375°F. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Here’s where the fun part comes in: cut out shapes or simple circles. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not make some gingerbread men?
Place the cookies on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for about 15 minutes. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly. Once they’re done, let them cool on a wire rack. If you fancy a little extra sweetness, a soft cream cheese frosting would be a lovely touch.
Just remember, the key to enjoying these cookies isn’t just the taste; it’s the experience of making them. So, grab a friend, your favorite mug of tea, and enjoy some quality time with your delicious cookies. Happy baking!
Gluten-Free Soft Molasses Cookies Substitutions & Variations
While experimenting with Gluten-Free Soft Molasses Cookies, I’ve discovered that there are plenty of substitutions and variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
For a dairy-free option, you can swap out the butter for coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. If you’re looking to reduce sugar, consider using maple syrup or agave nectar instead of brown sugar.
I’ve also found that adding chopped nuts or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can give these cookies a delightful twist. For a spicier version, try increasing the ginger or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Finally, if you want a different texture, experiment with almond flour or oat flour in place of some of the chestnut flour.
Happy baking!
What to Serve with Gluten-Free Soft Molasses Cookies
What pairs perfectly with Gluten-Free Soft Molasses Cookies? I love serving these cookies alongside a warm cup of spiced chai or a rich hot chocolate. The spices in the cookies complement the flavors in the drinks beautifully.
For a lighter option, a cup of herbal tea, like peppermint, works wonders too. If you’re feeling adventurous, try them with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream—talk about a delightful contrast!
I also enjoy adding a sprinkle of sea salt or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch.
Finally, a cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar or creamy goat cheese can create an interesting savory note that balances the sweetness of the cookies.
Enjoy experimenting with these pairings!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your chestnut flour gluten-free cookies turn out perfectly, I recommend paying close attention to the consistency of your dough. It should be stiff enough to hold its shape but still pliable when you roll it out. If it feels too sticky, add a bit more flour.
Refrigerating the dough overnight not only enhances the flavors but also makes it easier to work with. Don’t skip the sifting step—it helps eliminate lumps in the chestnut flour.
As for the spices, feel free to adjust them to your taste; I love a touch more cinnamon! Finally, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist. Enjoy your baking!