Get ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of warm, spicy aromas and delectable treats! These Old Fashioned Molasses Yam Cookies aren't just another dessert – they're a nostalgic journey that blends the rich, earthy sweetness of yams with the deep, complex flavor of molasses. Imagine biting into a soft, perfectly spiced cookie that tells a story of traditional American baking, with a unique twist that will have your family and friends begging for more. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe promises to become an instant favorite that bridges generations and creates lasting memories.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed yams
- 1/2 cup molasses
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and molasses until smooth and well combined, using an electric mixer on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the mashed yams and egg to the butter mixture, beating until fully incorporated and creating a uniform, slightly orange-colored batter.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently flatten each cookie mound slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingertips to create a more uniform shape.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers appear set but still soft.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for extra sweetness.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer storage.
Tips
- Choose the Right Yams: Use well-mashed, smooth yams for the best texture. Ensure they're at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don't Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
- Consistent Size Matters: Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookies that bake evenly. This ensures each cookie is perfectly cooked.
- Watch Baking Time Carefully: Ovens can vary, so start checking at 10 minutes. The cookies should be golden at the edges but still soft in the center.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let cookies rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This helps them set properly.
- Storage Hack: For maximum freshness, store in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them soft and moist.
- Experiment with Toppings: Try a light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of cream cheese glaze, or even a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
