Yummy Molasses Crackles

Provided by EatingWell.com

INGREDIENTS
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup plus 1 sugar, divided
1 large egg, beaten
1/4 cup molasses
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/8 teaspoon ground ginger
1/3 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped

COOKING DIRECTIONS
Step 1
Beat butter and 1 cup sugar in a large bowl with an electric mixer until creamy. Add egg and molasses. Mix well.

Step 2
Whisk flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, cloves and ginger in another large bowl until well blended. Stir in crystallized ginger.

Step 3
Blend the flour mixture into the butter mixture a cup at a time, mixing well, until it is all incorporated. Chill the dough in the refrigerator until firm, 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Step 4
Preheat oven to 375°F. Lightly coat 2 baking sheets with cooking spray.

Step 5
Place the remaining 1/3 cup sugar in a shallow dish. Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and then roll in the sugar. Place 1 1/2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6
Bake the cookies, in batches, until they crackle on top, 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool.

MAKE AHEAD TIP
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.