A nostalgic, old-fashioned treat, these Molasses Raisin Buns are packed with the deep, rich flavor of molasses, making them a perfect addition to your holiday baking lineup—or any time you want a taste of traditional comfort.
Ingredients
- ½ cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1 cup molasses
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tsp baking soda
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 cup butter
- 4 cups flour
- 1 cup raisins (optional, but highly recommended for traditional flavor)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Milk
- Egg
- Molasses
- Cinnamon
- Baking soda
- Stir until well mixed.
Step 2: Add Sugar and Butter
- Mix in the sugar and butter until well combined.
- Warm the mixture in the microwave for 40 seconds, just until slightly warm.
Step 3: Add Flour and Form Dough
- Gradually add the flour to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- If making Molasses Raisin Buns, fold in the raisins at this stage.
Step 4: Shape and Arrange
- Form the dough into small balls (about the size of a golf ball).
- Arrange them in rows in a greased baking dish, leaving a little space between each bun.
- Alternative: Scoop the dough into muffin pans for individual portions.
Step 5: Bake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Bake the buns for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these buns warm with a pat of butter for an authentic old-fashioned experience.
- Pair them with tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat.
Tips & Variations
- Add Spices: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a more festive twist.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for up to a month.
- Molasses Tip: Use dark or robust molasses for the richest flavor. Avoid blackstrap molasses, as it can be too bitter for this recipe.
These Molasses Raisin Buns are sure to bring back memories—or create new ones. Perfectly sweet, lightly spiced, and irresistibly soft!