Burundian Spiced Molasses Cookies

Ingredients

While the original Joe Froggers are traditionally made with American ingredients like brown sugar and maple syrup, this Burundian adaptation incorporates Burundian flavors and spices. The use of molasses adds a distinct richness to the cookies, and the blend of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg gives them a warm and aromatic profile that is characteristic of Burundian cuisine. We alse have the original recipe for Joe Froggers, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) 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 cloves 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) molasses 1/4 cup (60ml) molasses
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 18g, 10g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
3. 3.
   In a separate large bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, sugar, molasses, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. 5.
   Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. 6.
   Gently flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or the palm of your hand.
7. 7.
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set and the cookies are slightly firm to the touch.
8. 8.
   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 — Ensure you use unsulfured molasses for the best flavor and texture in the cookies.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cookie dough.
• If you prefer a softer texture, slightly underbake the cookies and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Serving advice

Serve these Burundian Spiced Molasses Cookies as a delightful dessert or snack alongside a cup of Burundian tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a beautiful platter and sprinkle them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also serve them with a drizzle of melted dark chocolate for a decadent twist.