Molasses Filled Cookies

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Molasses Filled Cookies.

1. Step 1

   Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C).

2. Step 2

   In a saucepan, toss the raisins with a teaspoon of flour until they are nicely coated.

3. Step 3

   Next, introduce 1/4 cup of sugar, a teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a splash of lemon juice to the raisins.

4. Step 4

   Pour in a cup of boiling water and bring this delightful mixture to a boil.

5. Step 5

   Stir constantly as it cooks, watching the raisins soften and the mixture thicken, which should take about 5 to 10 minutes.

6. Step 6

   Once done, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

7. Step 7

   In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 3/4 cups of flour, 3/4 cup of sugar, and a pinch of salt.

8. Step 8

   In a separate bowl, whisk together melted shortening and molasses, then stir in the remaining vanilla extract.

9. Step 9

   Dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda in 1/3 cup of boiling water and mix it into the molasses blend until it foams and is well incorporated.

10. Step 10

    Gradually fold the flour mixture into the molasses mixture until a stiff dough forms.

11. Step 11

    Divide this dough into two equal balls: one for the bottom cookie rounds and one for the top.

12. Step 12

    Cover one ball with a damp paper towel to keep it moist.

13. Step 13

    Roll out the remaining dough ball to an 1/8-inch thickness and cut out rounds using a glass or cookie cutter.

14. Step 14

    Arrange these bottom rounds on a baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between them, and generously top each with a tablespoon of the raisin filling.

15. Step 15

    Roll out the second dough ball to the same thickness and cut out rounds.

16. Step 16

    Moisten your fingers with water and gently stretch each top round to be about 1/4-inch larger than the bottom round.

17. Step 17

    Carefully place the top round over the filled bottom round, pressing firmly to seal the cookie.

18. Step 18

    Give the tops a gentle press to settle the filling.

19. Step 19

    Bake in your preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and golden.

20. Step 20

    Allow them to cool briefly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

21. Step 21

    Enjoy the sweet aroma and the delightful taste of your homemade cookies!.