Bourbon Molasses Cookies

Spiced, soft molasses cookies with a boozy bourbon kick and a hint of orange zest—perfectly chewy with a crackled sugar topping.

Ingredients

• 4 2/3 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tbsp baking soda

• 1 ½ tbsp ground ginger

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1 tsp ground cloves

• Pinch finely ground black pepper (optional)

• ½ tsp salt

• 12 oz unsalted butter, room temp

• 2 ¼ cups light brown sugar, packed

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ tsp finely grated orange zest

• 2 large eggs, room temp

• ½ cup molasses (not blackstrap)

• 3 tbsp bourbon

• ½ cup granulated sugar (for rolling dough)

Instructions

1. Whisk flour, baking soda, and spices in a bowl; set aside.

2. Beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy (~2 min). Add vanilla and orange zest.

3. Add eggs one at a time, then bourbon and molasses.

4. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing until smooth. Cover and refrigerate 4 hours to 3 days.

5. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line baking sheets with parchment.

6. Roll dough into 2-inch balls, coat with granulated sugar, and place on sheets.

7. Bake 8–10 minutes until puffed and cracked on top. Cool 5 minutes before transferring.

Storage: Keeps fresh up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Serve warm for best flavor!