As the chilly winds of autumn sweep through, I find myself drawn into the warm embrace of my kitchen, where heartwarming scents want to be whisked away into cherished memories. One bite of these Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies will transport you to a cozy café, where the air is thick with spices and laughter.
I stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a cozy afternoon spent sorting through my spice cabinet and contemplating how to transform the usual baking routine. The unexpected blend of cardamom and ghee lends an exquisite depth to these cookies, showcasing their unique appeal. They emerge from the oven crackling with comfort, perfect for holiday gatherings or simply curling up on the couch with a cup of tea.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal fuss, you’ll be crafting cookies that not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also spark joy in your home. Trust me, these little morsels are bound to impress friends and family alike—who knew homemade could be this easy and delicious? Let’s dive into the recipe and bring some warmth to your kitchen!
Why are Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies special?
Unique flavor profile: The warm cardamom pairs beautifully with rich ghee and molasses, creating a cookie that’s a delightful twist on tradition.
Quick and easy: With only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, baking these cookies is both a breeze and a joy.
Perfect for sharing: Their charming appearance and irresistible aroma make them a crowd-pleaser at gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Versatile treat: Enjoy them warm with coffee, or package them as gifts—these cookies suit any occasion.
Comfort in every bite: The sweet, spiced flavor and soft texture evoke that cozy, homey feeling we all cherish, perfect for chilly days.
Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies Ingredients
For the Dough
• All-purpose flour – This serves as the base for your cookies, giving them that delightful structure.
• Baking powder – Essential for helping the cookies rise, creating a fluffy texture.
• Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth, enhancing the overall spice profile of these cookies.
• Ground ginger – Offers a zesty kick, balancing the sweetness of the molasses.
• Ground cardamom – This is the star ingredient, lending a sophisticated flavor that elevates the cookies.
• Kosher salt – A touch of salt brightens the flavors and adds contrast to the sweetness.
• Large egg – Acts as a binding agent, ensuring the cookies hold together beautifully.
• Ghee – This unique fat not only adds richness but imparts a lovely nutty flavor.
• Turbinado sugar – A hint of natural molasses, enhances the sweetness and gives a delightful crunch.
• Molasses – Brings a deep, rich flavor that makes these cookies a family favorite and pairs perfectly with cardamom.
• Dark brown sugar – Contributes moisture and a lovely caramel-like taste, keeping the cookies soft and chewy.
• Turbinado sugar (for rolling) – Rolling in this sugar adds a sparkling finish and a delightful crunch to the outside.
Enjoy these Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies as they bake up into a cozy treat—perfect for sharing or enjoying solo!
How to Make Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies
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Preheat your oven to 375°F. This ensures a nicely baked cookie with that perfect soft center and crisp edges.
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Combine the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tsp baking powder, 1½ tsp ground cinnamon, 1 tsp ground ginger, ¾ tsp ground cardamom, and ½ tsp kosher salt until well blended.
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Whisk together the wet ingredients in a large bowl: Mix 1 large egg, ½ cup of room temperature ghee, ⅓ cup turbinado sugar, ⅓ cup molasses, and ¼ cup dark brown sugar until creamy and smooth—this should take about 2-3 minutes.
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Blend the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing for the best texture!
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Shape the dough: Use a tablespoon to scoop out portions of dough and roll them into 1-tbsp sized balls. Place them on a flat surface. For any extra dough you aren’t using, you can freeze these on a baking sheet and store them in a sealed container for other days—let them defrost at room temperature for 30 minutes before rolling them in sugar.
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Roll the dough balls**: Roll each ball in a layer of *turbinado sugar* to coat, then place them on parchment-lined baking sheets about 2 inches apart to give them room to spread while baking.
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Bake the cookies for 4 minutes, then rotate the pan. Bake for an additional 4-6 minutes until the cookies are puffed and cracked, with that delightful golden hue.
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Cool on wire racks: Once baked to perfection, transfer the cookies to a wire rack and let them cool completely. This will help them firm up while maintaining that soft inside.
Optional: Drizzle with a simple icing for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prep the dough up to 24 hours in advance. Simply prepare the dough as instructed, then roll it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer the cookie dough balls to a sealed container and keep them in the freezer. When you’re ready to bake, just let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before rolling in turbinado sugar and popping them into the oven. This way, you’ll enjoy freshly baked cookies anytime, just as delightful as if made from scratch that day!
Expert Tips for Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies
- Measure Ingredients Correctly: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure the proportions are accurate, as too much flour can lead to dry cookies.
- Use Room Temperature Ghee: Let your ghee come to room temperature to make mixing easier and create a smoother dough, resulting in tender cookies.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies instead of the desired softness.
- Chill the Dough: If your dough feels too sticky, chill it for 30 minutes before rolling to make handling a breeze and to prevent spreading during baking.
- Watch Them Closely: Oven times can vary. Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake to prevent overcooking—look for that lovely puffed and cracked appearance!
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices or add your favorites. Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies are versatile, making them a delightful canvas for creativity!
Storage Tips for Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies
Room Temperature: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and prevent them from becoming too hard.
Fridge: For longer storage, keep the cookies in the fridge in a sealed container for up to 1 week. Just make sure to bring them back to room temperature before enjoying for the best flavor.
Freezer: If you’d like to save some for later, freeze the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm the cookies in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5 minutes to revive their delightful texture before serving. Enjoy these Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies any time!
What to Serve with Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies?
Creating the perfect atmosphere for enjoying these fragrant cookies elevates the experience beyond the delicious taste.
- Spiced Tea: The warmth of spiced tea complements the cookies’ flavors, creating a cozy pairing perfect for chilly afternoons.
- Pumpkin Soup: A creamy pumpkin soup balances the sweetness of the cookies, offering a comforting, hearty meal that’s ideal for fall gatherings.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, adds a delightful contrast to the sweet spices in the cookies, making for an irresistible appetizer.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a cool, creamy reprieve against the spices, resulting in a delightful flavor fusion.
- Apple Cider: Warm, spiced apple cider enhances the cozy vibes, making for a festive drink that perfectly matches the essence of the cookies.
- Chocolate Fondue: The richness of melted chocolate invites a fun dipping experience, beautifully balancing the sweet and spiced notes of the cookies.
- Cranberry Scones: These tender, fruity scones add a tart element that complements the sweetness of the cookies, making for an exquisite brunch spread.
- Chai Latte: The creamy, spiced warmth of a chai latte pairs blissfully, enhancing the cardamom flavors while creating a soothing atmosphere.
- Gingerbread Cake: For those who can’t get enough of the season’s spices, a slice of gingerbread cake will keep the festive feels alive and deliciously accentuate the cookies.
Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies Variations
Feel free to get creative with these cookies and make them uniquely yours with these delightful twists.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute ghee with coconut oil or plant-based butter for a dairy-free version that still maintains great flavor.
- Nutty Addition: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the dough for a crunchy contrast to the soft cookie texture.
- Spicy Kick: Add ¼ tsp of cayenne pepper or chili powder for a surprising heat that pairs beautifully with the spices.
- Chocolate Delight: Mix in ½ cup of dark chocolate chips for a rich, decadent addition that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to cater to those with gluten sensitivities.
- Fruity Twist: Fold in ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet and chewy burst of flavor in every bite.
- Zesty Finish: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the dough to brighten the flavors and provide a fresh citrus note.
- Icing Drizzle: Whip up a simple mixture of powdered sugar and milk or water to drizzle over cooled cookies for an extra touch of sweetness and decoration.
Every variation brings its own magic, making these cookies perfect for any flavor palate or occasion!
Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies Recipe FAQs
What kind of cardamom should I use for these cookies?
Absolutely! I recommend using ground cardamom for this recipe. You can find it in most grocery stores or health food shops. If you prefer, you can also purchase whole cardamom pods and grind them yourself for a fresher flavor. Just make sure to adjust the amount accordingly, as a little goes a long way!
How should I store my Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies?
To keep your cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to maintain their delightful softness longer, consider refrigerating them, where they’ll last about 1 week. Remember to bring them back to room temperature for the best taste and texture!
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
Yes, indeed! If you want to save some dough for later, freeze the rolled dough balls on a baking sheet for about 1-2 hours until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or a freezer bag. They can be kept for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, let them thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling them in sugar and baking!
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
Very good question! If your dough is sticky, you might want to chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will help solidify the fats in the ghee, making it easier to handle. Alternatively, you can lightly dust your hands and the surface with a bit of flour to make the rolling process smoother.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Certainly! To create gluten-free Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check the ingredients for any allergens if you’re preparing these for someone with sensitivities. They might also require slight adjustments in liquid—it’s a fun way to experiment in the kitchen!
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
Be cautious, as these cookies contain ghee, sugar, and spices that could be harmful to pets. It’s crucial to keep these delightful treats out of reach of furry friends. Additionally, if anyone has allergies, always check for cross-contamination, especially with nuts or gluten. Enjoying these cookies at home can bring joy to everyone in a safe and delicious way!
Irresistible Cardamom Ghee Molasses Cookies You’ll Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Combine the dry ingredients in a medium bowl.
- Whisk together the wet ingredients in a large bowl.
- Blend the wet and dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined.
- Shape the dough into 1-tbsp sized balls.
- Roll each ball in turbinado sugar, then place on parchment-lined baking sheets.
- Bake the cookies for 4 minutes, rotate the pan, then bake for an additional 4-6 minutes.
- Cool on wire racks.