Spiced Molasses Crinkle Cookies
I spent years looking for a molasses cookie recipe that could compare to those from Layers Bakery. After finding this one I stopped the search. It’s been in rotation for over 7 years, so it’s definitely a keeper. Originally published on the Nature’s Legacy recipe blog, it’s sadly no longer available. Thankfully I had printed it out and put it in my recipe binder! I’m happy to share it with you all (along with my extra spice additions)!
Crisp edge, chewy middle, and perfectly spiced!
The original recipe called for whole spelt flour. I’ve always loved using spelt for baking as it is a less hybridized ancient grain very similar to regular wheat but is slightly higher in protein and higher in minerals like manganese, zinc, and copper. Spelt does have gluten but contains a weaker gluten structure than conventional wheat. This can often make it easier to digest (but still not suitable for someone with celiac disease). To bump up the health benefits and digestibility even more I recommend using SPROUTED SPELT FLOUR. To sprout grains you first soak them overnight in water, drain, and continue to rinse 2x a day - this simple process allows the grains to germinate and sprout! Then the sprouted grains need to be thoroughly dried before being ground into flour. Sprouting allows the grains to literally ‘come alive’ as it starts to transform into a plant all its own. The nutritional profile is altered in amazing ways as a result too!
Benefits of sprouting grains:
Decreases antinutrients like phytic acid, lectins, and gluten
Increases digestibility
Lowers starch levels and glycemic load
Increases vitamins and mineral levels and makes them more bioavailable
Enhances flavor and texture
Any regular whole wheat or all-purpose flour can be used for this recipe, but I highly encourage you to try an ancient grain or sprouted flour to increase the nutrition and variety.
I’ve purchased sprouted spelt flour from both Azure Standard and Amazon, but Amazon definitely has the best price this year. But maybe it’s time to break out my sprouting jars and dehydrator to experiment with making my own sprouted flour!? Homeschool science lesson, right?
Blackstrap molasses is also a nutritional powerhouse. It’s high in iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and more! You can find it at most health food stores or grocery chains. I typically add it to my Azure or Amazon order though since the grocery stores I frequent most (Trader Joe’s and Costco) don’t carry molasses.
Other ingredients you’ll need:
ground cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, clove, and nutmeg
cayenne pepper (optional)
sea salt
softened or melted butter
granulated sugar
brown sugar, packed
egg
raw or granulated sugar for rolling
Spiced Molasses Crinkle Cookies
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes:
If the dough is too sticky, chill for 20 minutes before scooping and rolling.
