Joe Froggers - Traditional American Molasses Cookies

Ingredients

• 2 cups (400g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (400g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar 1 cup (200g) dark brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) molasses 1/4 cup (60ml) molasses
• 1 tablespoon dark rum (optional) 1 tablespoon dark rum (optional)
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• Granulated sugar, for rolling Granulated sugar, for rolling

Nutrition

• Calories: 150 kcal / 628 KJ
• Fat: 6g (3.5g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 23g (14g sugars)
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.
3. 3.
   In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and dark brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. 4.
   Add the molasses, rum (if using), and egg to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
6. 6.
   Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat.
7. 7.
   Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. 8.
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly soft.
9. 9.
   Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Molasses — To easily measure molasses, lightly coat the measuring spoon or cup with oil or cooking spray. This will prevent the molasses from sticking and ensure accurate measurements.

Tips & Tricks

• For a stronger ginger flavor, add an additional 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger to the dough.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, sprinkle a pinch of cayenne pepper into the dough.
• To achieve a chewier texture, slightly underbake the cookies by reducing the baking time by 1-2 minutes.
• Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container to maintain their softness and flavor.
• These cookies taste even better the next day, as the flavors meld together.

Serving advice

Serve these Joe Froggers with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea for a delightful snack or dessert. They are perfect for sharing with family and friends during festive gatherings or as a comforting treat on a cozy evening.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Joe Froggers on a rustic wooden platter or a vintage cookie tin for a charming presentation. Dust them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. The crackled surface and deep brown color of the cookies will entice everyone to take a bite.