As the nights grow cooler, there’s nothing like curling up with a warm and comforting treat to ease into the cozy season. Molasses, with its rich, velvety flavor, is the perfect ingredient to add depth and warmth to your baked goods, savory dishes, and even drinks. From classic gingerbread cookies to slow-cooked baked beans, molasses brings a level of sophistication and complexity that’s hard to replicate with other sweeteners.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 sweet molasses recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert, a hearty side dish, or a comforting drink to warm up on a chilly evening, these recipes have got you covered. So grab a cup of hot cocoa and let’s dive into the world of sweet molasses cooking!
Classic Gingerbread Cookies with Molasses
Warm up your holiday season with these classic gingerbread cookies, infused with the rich flavor of molasses.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 large eggs
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses; mix until well combined.
4. Beat in eggs; add flour mixture; mix until a dough forms.
5. Wrap dough in plastic wrap; refrigerate for 30 minutes.
6. Roll out dough to 1/8 inch thickness; cut into desired shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between cookies.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: About 24 cookies
Old-Fashioned Molasses Bread
Savor the rich flavor of this traditional molasses bread, reminiscent of a bygone era. With its deep brown color and sweet, slightly spiced aroma, it’s perfect for serving with butter or as a base for sandwiches.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, combine molasses, warm water, sugar, ginger, and cinnamon. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a sticky dough forms.
5. Knead the dough for 10 minutes, then shape into a loaf and place in the prepared pan.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow-Cooked Molasses Baked Beans
Elevate your classic baked beans game with this sweet and savory recipe that’s perfect for BBQs, potlucks, or family gatherings. This slow-cooked twist is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon bacon drippings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a large bowl, combine soaked beans, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
3. In a separate bowl, mix ketchup, molasses, brown sugar, mustard, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. If using bacon drippings, stir in during the last hour of cooking.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Molasses-Glazed Ham with Pineapple
Sweet and savory, this Molasses-Glazed Ham with Pineapple is a perfect centerpiece for any holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons pineapple juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh pineapple wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together molasses, brown sugar, pineapple juice, garlic, mustard, and cinnamon.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat layer in a diamond pattern.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the score lines.
5. Cover the ham with foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh pineapple wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Spiced Molasses Pumpkin Pie
This pie combines the warmth of spices with the deep flavor of molasses, creating a unique and delicious twist on traditional pumpkin pie.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, molasses, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
3. Beat in eggs until well combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour filling into pie crust.
6. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce heat to 350°F and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes or until filling is set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Molasses Barbecue Sauce for Ribs
Molasses Barbecue Sauce for Ribs Recipe
Introduction
Elevate your barbecue game with this rich and tangy molasses-based sauce, perfect for slathering on tender ribs.
Ingredients
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Whisk until smooth, then bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
5. Use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time
Total time: 20-25 minutes
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15-20 minutes
Soft Molasses Spice Cookies
These soft and chewy cookies are perfect for a sweet treat any time of the year. With their warm spices and rich molasses flavor, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in molasses and egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Molasses-Braised Short Ribs
Rich and comforting, these short ribs are slow-cooked in a sweet and tangy molasses braising liquid to fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 beef short ribs
– 1/4 cup dark brown molasses
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat oil over medium-high. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add molasses, red wine, beef broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover with a lid or foil, and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
7. Remove from oven; let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Molasses and Brown Sugar Oatmeal
Start your day off right with a sweet and satisfying bowl of oatmeal infused with the rich flavors of molasses and brown sugar. This recipe is perfect for a chilly morning or as a comforting snack any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon molasses
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water or milk to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the oats, brown sugar, molasses, and salt. Whisk until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oatmeal is creamy and cooked through.
4. Remove from heat and stir in a pinch of cinnamon, if desired.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Molasses-Marinated Grilled Chicken
Transform your grilled chicken with the rich flavor of molasses and a hint of spice. This recipe is perfect for a quick and delicious meal or a flavorful addition to your next BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together molasses, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Molasses Pecan Sticky Buns
These soft, gooey buns are infused with the rich flavors of molasses and pecans, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Add melted butter, molasses, and yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Punch down the dough and roll out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the dough.
6. Roll up the dough tightly and cut into 12-15 pieces. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each bun.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Molasses Cornbread with Honey Butter
This Molasses Cornbread recipe combines the warmth of molasses with the comfort of honey butter, creating a sweet and savory delight. Perfect for accompanying your favorite soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey butter (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, molasses, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add buttermilk and melted butter; stir until just combined.
4. Pour batter into a greased 9-inch square baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Honey Butter:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
Mix together butter and honey until smooth. Serve warm alongside the cornbread.
Molasses-Glazed Carrots with Thyme
Elevate your vegetable side dish game with this simple yet impressive recipe, where sweet molasses meets savory thyme. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons pure molasses
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with butter until coated.
3. In a small saucepan, combine molasses, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add the molasses mixture to the carrots and toss until they’re evenly glazed.
5. Spread the carrots on a baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Molasses and Apple Cider Pulled Pork
Transform tender pork shoulder into a sweet and tangy delight with this simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together molasses, apple cider, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and cumin.
3. Season the pork shoulder with salt and pepper.
4. Place the pork shoulder in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot with a lid. Pour the molasses mixture over the pork.
5. Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Use two forks to pull the pork apart into shreds.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Molasses-Spiced Hot Chocolate
This recipe combines the classic comfort of hot chocolate with the deep, warm spices of molasses, creating a unique and delicious treat perfect for cold winter days.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk or dairy alternative (whole milk, half-and-half, or non-dairy milk work well)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/8 teaspoon blackstrap molasses
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Stir in the molasses until dissolved.
4. If desired, add heavy cream or half-and-half to enrich the hot chocolate.
5. Pour into mugs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Molasses Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes get a rich and indulgent makeover with the addition of molasses, creating a sweet and savory flavor combination that’s perfect for fall and winter gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon molasses
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Scrub the sweet potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, molasses, and cinnamon.
4. Pierce each sweet potato several times with a fork and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the sweet potatoes evenly with the molasses mixture, sprinkling with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Molasses and Rum Soaked Fruitcake
Experience the rich flavors of molasses and rum in this moist and flavorful fruitcake, perfect for special occasions or everyday treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed dried fruits (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup dark rum
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine dried fruits, brown sugar, molasses, rum, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Add flour and mix until just combined.
4. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
5. Bake for 2 hours or until toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool in pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Molasses Mustard Salad Dressing
This Molasses Mustard Salad Dressing combines the richness of molasses with the tanginess of mustard, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile. Perfect for dressing your favorite greens or as a marinade for grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard
– 1 tablespoon blackstrap molasses
– 1/2 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together vinegar, mustard, and molasses until smooth.
2. Add honey and salt; whisk until well combined.
3. Slowly pour in olive oil while continuously whisking the mixture until fully incorporated.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness or tanginess as needed.
Cooking Time: None! This salad dressing is ready to use immediately.
Summary
Cozy up with these sweet molasses recipes perfect for chilly nights. From classic gingerbread cookies to slow-cooked baked beans, old-fashioned bread, and more, these treats are sure to warm your heart and home. Try adding a rich molasses glaze to your ham or pineapple, or use it to spice up your pumpkin pie. Whether you’re in the mood for sweet or savory, there’s something here for everyone.
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