Molasses Ginger Cookies

So I know that it is past the usual time of year for ginger cookies. Normally I would never be making them this time of year. But this last Christmas I included this recipe on my list of give-away treats, and I got nothing but rave reviews and requests for more. Yes, more ginger cookies in January. That good.

The best part is these cookies couldn't be easier to make. I was a little worried that they didn't call for butter, that the vegetable oil would make them greasy, but that wasn't the case. They are a bit crisp on the outside with the perfect amount of chew on the inside. I will be holding on to this recipe for many years to come. Enjoy!

Molasses Sugar Cookies

3/4 cup vegetable oil
   1 cup sugar
1/4 cup molasses
   1 egg
   2 cups all-purpose flour
   2 teaspoons baking soda
   1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground gloves
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
     Additional sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the oil, sugar, and molasses. Add egg; mix well. Combine the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, cloves, and ginger; add to sugar mixture and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours or until easy to work with.

Shape dough into 1.5-in balls; roll in sugar. Place 3 in. apart on greased baking sheets (or line sheets with parchment or sil-pats). Bake at 375 degrees for 9-11 min or until tops are cracked and edges are set. Cool for 2-3 min before removing to wire racks.

Makes about 3 dozen

Slightly adapted from The Holiday Treasury Cookbook