There’s a cozy warmth that envelops my kitchen every time I bake, especially when my hands are covered in sticky molasses. The anticipation builds as the sweet, rich scent fills the air, instantly transforming my home into a comforting haven. That’s precisely how I stumbled upon my favorite treat: Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups.
Thinking back to that chilly afternoon when I craved something indulgent yet easy to whip up, I decided to play with flavors and textures. The result? These delightful bites that marry the rich, deep flavor of molasses with the smooth, chocolatey surprise of a Rolo! Imagine the first bite—soft cookies with a melted center that oozes sweetness, making them an instant crowd-pleaser.
Perfect for any occasion or simply to satisfy a sweet tooth, these cookie cups come together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just looking to escape the monotony of fast food desserts, this recipe will quickly become a cherished favorite. Let’s dive in and create some magic together!
Why You'll Love This Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups
- These Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups are incredibly easy to make, allowing you to whip up a delicious treat in just under 30 minutes.
- The unique combination of rich molasses and gooey chocolate makes every bite an explosion of flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.
- Their versatility means you can serve them at parties, family gatherings, or just as a delightful snack to satisfy your sweet cravings.
- Plus, the beautiful presentation with the melted chocolate center peeking through the cookie is sure to impress your guests and elevate any dessert table.
Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups Ingredients
Get ready to create these deliciously soft cookie cups!
For the Cookies
• Unsulfured molasses – adds a deep, rich flavor that makes these cookie cups unforgettable.
• Light brown sugar – enhances sweetness and creates a chewy texture.
• Unsalted butter – provides richness; make sure it’s softened for easy creaming.
• All-purpose flour – the base of the cookies; helps bind the ingredients together.
• Large eggs – binds the mixture and adds moisture to the dough.
• Baking soda – acts as a leavening agent for a puffy texture.
• Salt – balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
For the Surprise
• Rolos – these chocolate caramel candies create a gooey center that makes each bite magical!
How to Make Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing your muffin tin is essential to ensure the cookie cups come out easily after baking. A quick spray or a light coat of butter works wonders!
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Cream together the softened butter and light brown sugar in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer for about 3 minutes until it becomes fluffy and light, bringing out that wonderful caramel-like aroma.
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Incorporate the unsulfured molasses into the creamed mixture, then add the eggs one at a time. Mix well until each egg is fully incorporated—this step helps achieve a rich and dense batter.
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Combine the dry ingredients by whisking the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. Gradually add this mix to your wet ingredients, stirring gently until everything is wonderfully blended.
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Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of your dough into the muffin cups, making a small indentation in the center of each. This is where the magic happens when you add the Rolos—don’t skip this step!
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Place a Rolo in each cup, gently pressing down to nestle it within the dough. Bake in your preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn a lovely golden brown.
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Cool your cookie cups in the tin for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This allows them to set slightly and makes it easier to remove them without breaking.
Optional: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookie cups for an extra indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups are a fantastic option for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients together and refrigerating it. This keeps the dough fresh and flavorful while allowing the flavors to meld. When you’re ready to bake, simply scoop the chilled dough into the muffin tins, press in the Rolos, and bake as directed. The cookies will turn out just as delicious and gooey! If you prefer, you can also bake the cookie cups and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature—just warm them slightly before serving for that fresh-baked taste!
How to Store and Freeze Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups
Room Temperature: Store your cookie cups in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and soft.
Fridge: If you prefer a firmer texture, keep them in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure they’re in a tightly sealed container to prevent them from drying out.
Freezer: Freeze the cookie cups individually wrapped in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer bag, for up to 3 months. Reheat by thawing and placing in the oven for a few minutes to restore warmth.
Reheating: For the best taste, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through, helping restore that delightful gooey center!
What to Serve with Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups?
Creating a delightful meal to accompany your sweet treat adds an extra layer of joy to your baking experience.
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Ice Cream: Topping these cookie cups with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a heavenly contrast, with the warm cookies mingling beautifully with the cold creaminess.
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Hot Chocolate: A rich, velvety hot chocolate complements the sweet flavors, offering a delightful drink to sip alongside every indulgent bite.
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Fresh Berries: Serve a side of mixed berries for a refreshing touch; the tartness brightens up the rich sweetness of the cookie cups.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream balances the dense texture of the cookie cups, making each bite feel even more luxurious.
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Apple Cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider provides a cozy beverage that enhances the fall spices in the cookies, perfect for cool evenings.
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Milk: You can’t go wrong with a classic glass of milk! It’s the perfect pairing for kids and adults alike, making those chocolate-filled centers even more satisfying.
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Salted Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of salted caramel sauce takes it over the top, adding a superb contrast that highlights the molasses while whispering “decadence.”
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Pumpkin Pie Spice: Dusting a bit of pumpkin pie spice over whipped cream or ice cream can bring a seasonal twist that enhances the warming spices in your cookie cups.
Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups Variations
Let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful cookie cups to suit your taste!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make these cookie cups accessible to everyone. The same delicious magic awaits!
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Nutty Twist: Add a half cup of finely chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the dough for an added crunch and richness. It enhances the flavor profile beautifully, marrying textures perfectly.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of ground ginger or cinnamon for a warming spice note that complements the molasses beautifully. This will elevate the aroma and add depth to each bite.
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Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water = 1 egg) and use plant-based butter for a vegan-friendly treat. Everyone can enjoy the sweetness!
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Chocolate Lovers’ Delight: Fold in chocolate chips or chunks into the cookie dough for a chocolatey explosion with every bite. It’s the ultimate indulgence for chocoholics.
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Caramel Infusion: Instead of Rolos, use caramel squares or even a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce on top right before serving. This adds an extra gooeyness that’s hard to resist.
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Fruity Surprise: Add a handful of dried cherries or cranberries into the dough for a tart contrast to the sweetness of the molasses and chocolate. It brings a delightful pop of flavor!
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Minty Refresh: A few drops of peppermint extract mixed into the batter can provide a refreshing summertime twist. The combination of mint and chocolate is simply heavenly!
Explore these variations to create a batch uniquely your own!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your butter is truly softened to room temperature before creaming it with sugar, as this leads to a better texture in your Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups.
- When incorporating the eggs, add them one at a time and mix thoroughly to achieve a homogeneous batter that bakes evenly.
- Be careful not to overmix the dry ingredients with the wet—mix until just blended to avoid tough cookies.
- Baking at the specified temperature of 350°F is crucial for achieving the perfect golden edges without overcooking the centers.
Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups Recipe FAQs
Which molasses should I use?
I recommend using unsulfured molasses for these cookie cups, as it provides a deeper flavor and is suitable for most recipes. The sulfured variety can have a stronger taste and may not be the best choice for baking. Look for a thick, dark liquid with no dark spots, which indicates it’s fresh!
How long can I store Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups?
You can keep your cookie cups at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If you’d like them to last a bit longer, they can thrive in the fridge for about a week; just ensure they’re sealed tightly to maintain moisture. I’ve often found they taste just as delicious even after refrigerating!
Can I freeze Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each cookie cup in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight or reheat them directly from the freezer at 350°F for about 5 minutes to warm through and return that gooey center!
What to do if the cookie cups spread too much while baking?
If your cookie cups spread too much during baking, it might be due to the butter being too soft or melted when mixed. Make sure to cream only softened butter, not melted. A quick tip: place the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes before scooping it into the muffin tin. This helps them hold their shape during baking!
Any dietary considerations for Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups?
These cookie cups contain gluten and dairy, so they may not be suitable for those with gluten intolerance or lactose sensitivity. However, you can use gluten-free flour blends and non-dairy butter alternatives to create a version that accommodates dietary needs. Always check labels on the Rolos for any potential allergens, as they contain dairy and may have traces of nuts.
How can I tell if they’re done baking?
Your Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups are done when the edges turn a lovely golden brown, typically within 10-12 minutes. They might look slightly soft in the center, but they’ll set as they cool. If you want to ensure they’re fully baked, you can do the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into a couple of the edges, and if it comes out clean or with very few crumbs, they are ready to be cooled and enjoyed.
Molasses Rolo Cookie Cups
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease your muffin tin.
- Cream together the softened butter and light brown sugar in a mixing bowl for about 3 minutes until fluffy.
- Incorporate the unsulfured molasses, then add the eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Combine the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, and salt) in a separate bowl and gradually add to the wet mixture.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough into the muffin cups, making an indentation in the center of each.
- Place a Rolo in each cup, pressing down gently, then bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Cool in the tin for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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