5 Irresistible Molasses Recipes to Try Today

Molasses is a rich, dark syrup that adds depth and complexity to both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you love the classic taste of gingerbread or want to experiment with new flavors, molasses can be the secret ingredient to elevate your cooking. Here are five delicious molasses recipes to try, all using the metric measuring system.

1. Classic Gingerbread Cookies

Gingerbread cookies are a holiday staple, but they can be enjoyed year-round. The molasses in the dough provides a chewy texture and a deep, caramel-like sweetness.

Ingredients:

• 300 g all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon nutmeg
• 125 g butter, softened
• 100 g sugar
• 1 egg
• 150 ml molasses

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and molasses until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 5 mm thick.
7. Cut into shapes using cookie cutters and place on the prepared baking tray.
8. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Let cool completely before decorating or serving.

2. Molasses-Glazed Salmon

For a savory take on molasses, try using it as a glaze for salmon. The molasses enhances the natural richness of the salmon while adding a unique depth of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 150 g each)
• 60 ml molasses
• 30 ml soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together molasses, soy sauce, garlic, mustard, olive oil, and black pepper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the baking tray and brush generously with the glaze.
4. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through and caramelized.
5. Serve warm with your favorite side dishes.

3. Old-Fashioned Molasses Cake

This moist and spiced cake is perfect for any occasion. Serve it warm with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar for a comforting dessert.

Ingredients:

• 250 g all-purpose flour
• 150 g brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon cloves
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 200 ml molasses
• 120 ml milk
• 2 eggs
• 100 g butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C and grease a cake tin.
2. In a bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and baking soda.
3. In another bowl, whisk together molasses, milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until well combined.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool before serving.

4. Molasses BBQ Sauce

Upgrade your barbecue sauce with the bold flavor of molasses. This rich and smoky sauce is perfect for glazing ribs, chicken, or even roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 120 ml molasses
• 250 ml ketchup
• 60 ml apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine all ingredients.
2. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat and let cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and let cool before using.
5. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.

5. Molasses Oatmeal Breakfast Bars

For a nutritious and satisfying snack, make molasses oatmeal bars. These bars offer a chewy texture and a warm, spiced sweetness, making them a great on-the-go breakfast option.

Ingredients:

• 200 g rolled oats
• 100 g chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
• 100 g dried fruit (such as raisins or cranberries)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 120 ml molasses
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons coconut oil, melted
• 1 egg, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 175°C and line a baking tin with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, nuts, dried fruit, and cinnamon.
3. In another bowl, whisk together molasses, honey, coconut oil, and egg.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking tin and press it down firmly.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, or until firm and golden brown.
7. Let cool before slicing into bars.

Molasses is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can be used in both traditional and creative ways. Whether you are making a nostalgic gingerbread cookie or experimenting with a molasses-glazed salmon, these recipes are sure to bring a rich and delicious flavor to your table.