Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies

These Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies are a delightful treat that brings the warmth and spice of fall into your home. With their soft and chewy texture, bold ginger flavor, and rich molasses base, these cookies are perfect for cozy evenings or festive gatherings. You can enjoy them anytime you crave something sweet or comforting, making them a versatile addition to any dessert table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Bold Flavor: The combination of ginger, cinnamon, and molasses creates a warm and inviting flavor profile that is hard to resist.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a quiet evening at home, these cookies fit any occasion beautifully.
• Soft and Chewy Texture: Enjoy the delightful contrast of the crispy sugar coating with the soft center of each cookie.
• Customizable: Feel free to add chocolate chips or nuts for an extra twist on this classic cookie.

Tools and Preparation

To make these delicious cookies, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer or electric mixer
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer or electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a light and airy texture in your cookie dough by thoroughly creaming the butter and sugar together.
• Baking sheets: Using quality baking sheets ensures even heat distribution, which is crucial for perfectly baked cookies.
• Parchment paper: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Ingredients

These cookies are soft and chewy with bold ginger flavor and a rich molasses base. Perfect for fall, winter or anytime you’re craving something cozy and sweet.

For the Cookie Dough

• 2 1/4 Cups all purpose flour
• 1 Cup brown sugar (dark)
• 3/4 Cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/4 Cup molasses (light flavored)
• 1 large egg
• 2 Teaspoons baking soda
• 1 1/4 Teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 Teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 Teaspoon salt
• 1/4 Teaspoon ground nutmeg

For Coating

• 3/4 Cup granulated sugar

How to Make Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. This step is crucial as it ensures that your cookies bake evenly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheets

Prepare two large baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This will help prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl with an electric mixer or in the bowl of a stand mixer:
1. Cream together the brown sugar and softened butter until light and airy (about 3-4 minutes).

Step 4: Add Wet Ingredients

Slowly stream in the molasses while mixing. Once combined:
1. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
2. Add in the egg.
3. Mix until fully combined and airy again.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift in the flour, salt, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg into the butter mixture:
1. Combine on low speed until a thick dough forms.

Step 6: Prepare Sugar Coating

Place granulated sugar into a small bowl nearby:
1. Fill another small cup or bowl with water and set it aside.

Step 7: Shape Cookies

Scoop about ¼ cup of dough into your hand:
1. Roll it into a ball.
2. Roll this ball in sugar until generously coated.
3. Place on a baking sheet.
4. Dampen your fingers in water.
5. Press down lightly on each ball to flatten slightly.

Step 8: Bake Cookies

Repeat shaping until you’ve filled one baking sheet (5-6 cookies per sheet):
1. Bake on the middle rack for about 10-15 minutes until edges are hardened.
2. Keep remaining dough in fridge while first batch bakes.

Step 9: Cool Down

Once baked:
1. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to wire racks.
2. Repeat with remaining cookie dough from fridge.

Enjoy these amazing Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies as they fill your kitchen with incredible aromas!

How to Serve Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies

These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for sharing or enjoying on your own. They pair beautifully with various beverages and can be dressed up for special occasions.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: A warm cup of coffee enhances the spices in the cookies.
• Tea: Enjoy these cookies with a spicy chai or soothing herbal tea for a cozy treat.
• Hot Chocolate: The sweetness of hot chocolate pairs well with the bold flavors of ginger.

As a Dessert Platter

• Cookie Platter: Arrange them on a festive platter with other cookie varieties for a delightful dessert spread.
• Ice Cream Sandwiches: Use two cookies to sandwich your favorite vanilla or ginger ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Gift Giving

• Gift Boxes: Package these cookies in decorative boxes to share with friends and family during holidays or celebrations.
• Party Favors: Wrap individual cookies in clear bags tied with ribbons as sweet party favors.

How to Perfect Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies

Achieving the perfect ginger molasses cookie is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you create the best batch possible.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing butter and eggs to room temperature helps create a smooth, well-mixed dough.
• Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid dense cookies.
• Chill the Dough: If time allows, chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes can improve texture and prevent spreading during baking.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be set around the edges but still soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
• Store Properly: Keep cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to retain their softness and flavor.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spice levels according to your preference for bolder or subtler flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies

Complementing your ginger molasses cookies with side dishes can create a more complete experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Spiced Apple Cider: Warm apple cider infused with spices enhances the cozy flavors of the cookies.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of creamy cheeses can balance out the sweetness of the cookies beautifully.
3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some homemade or store-bought caramel over the cookies for an extra sweet touch.
4. Fruit Salad: A fresh mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of ginger and molasses.
5. Nuts and Dried Fruits: A bowl of mixed nuts and dried fruits makes for a crunchy, savory counterpoint to soft cookies.
6. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a healthy side that complements cookie indulgence perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes you should avoid.

• Using Cold Butter: Cold butter will not cream properly with the sugar, resulting in dense cookies. Always make sure your butter is softened for best results.
• Skipping the Resting Period: Not allowing the cookie dough to rest can lead to cookies that spread too much. Chill the dough in the fridge for at least 30 minutes for optimal texture.
• Not Measuring Flour Accurately: Too much flour can make your cookies dry and tough. Use a kitchen scale or spoon and level the flour to ensure accuracy.
• Overbaking: Baking cookies too long can result in hard cookies. Keep an eye on them and remove them from the oven when they appear set around the edges but still soft in the middle.
• Neglecting to Roll in Sugar: Rolling the dough balls in granulated sugar adds sweetness and texture. Don’t skip this step for that signature look and taste!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
• Place parchment paper between layers of cookies to prevent sticking.

Freezing Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies

• Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place a cookie in a covered skillet over low heat for about 1 minute.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies.

What makes Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies special?

These cookies are known for their soft, chewy texture and bold ginger flavor, reminiscent of cozy fall days.

Can I substitute ingredients in Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies?

Yes! You can use coconut oil instead of butter or substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar for a different flavor profile.

How do I store leftover Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies?

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week or freeze them for longer storage.

How do I know when my cookies are done baking?

The edges should appear set, while the center may look slightly underbaked. They will firm up as they cool.

Final Thoughts

These Starbucks Copycat Ginger Molasses Cookies are perfect for any occasion, bringing warmth and comfort with every bite. Feel free to customize with chocolate chips or nuts if you desire! Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats anytime you crave something sweet.