18 Rich Blackstrap Molasses Recipes for Healthy Indulgence

18 Rich Blackstrap Molasses Recipes for Healthy Indulgence

When it comes to baking, cooking, or simply adding flavor to your daily meals, there’s one ingredient that can elevate your dishes from ordinary to extraordinary: blackstrap molasses. This thick, dark liquid is packed with nutrients like iron, calcium, and potassium, making it a healthier alternative to refined sugars. But what really sets molasses apart is its rich, deep flavor profile, which adds depth and complexity to everything from sweet treats like cookies and cakes to savory dishes like braises and BBQ.

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of blackstrap molasses and explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase its versatility and health benefits. From classic baked goods to creative twists on traditional dishes, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body.

Blackstrap Molasses Gingerbread Cookies

These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the deep, dark flavor of blackstrap molasses and the spicy warmth of crystallized ginger. Perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a thoughtful gift.

Ingredients:

– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup blackstrap molasses
– 2 large eggs
– Crystallized ginger, finely chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add molasses and mix until combined.
4. Beat in eggs until smooth. Gradually add dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are just slightly soft.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch

Molasses Glazed BBQ Ribs

Take a trip down south with these tender and flavorful ribs, smothered in a sticky molasses glaze that will leave you wanting more.

Ingredients:

– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Wood chips or chunks for smoking (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your grill to 275°F.
2. Season the ribs with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Smoke the ribs over low heat for 4-5 hours, or until they’re tender and slightly charred.
4. In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, molasses, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Brush the ribs with the glaze during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (plus 10-15 minutes resting time)

Blackstrap Molasses Oatmeal Bread

Savor the rich flavors of this hearty bread, infused with the deep notes of blackstrap molasses and the comforting warmth of oatmeal.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup rolled oats
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 packet active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
– 1 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon blackstrap molasses
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, flour, sugar, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, proof the yeast by stirring it into the warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
3. Add molasses, melted butter, and yeast mixture to dry ingredients. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough on floured surface for 10 minutes until smooth.
5. Place dough in greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in warm place for 1 hour.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 45 minutes

Healthy Molasses Granola Bars

These chewy granola bars are packed with nutritious ingredients and a hint of sweet molasses flavor, making them a perfect snack or breakfast on-the-go.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, walnuts, etc.)
– 1/2 cup puffed rice cereal
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons blackstrap molasses
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: chocolate chips or dried fruit for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, nuts, and puffed rice cereal.
3. In a separate bowl, mix honey, molasses, brown sugar, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
4. Pour wet ingredients over dry ingredients and stir until everything is well coated.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish and bake for 20-22 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.

Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes

Yield: 12-16 granola bars

Molasses Braised Short Ribs

Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked short ribs infused with the deep sweetness of molasses and the tanginess of vinegar.

Ingredients:

– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 1/2 cup dark molasses
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Brown the short ribs in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per batch. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, thyme, molasses, vinegar, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the short ribs to the pot and cover with a lid or foil.
7. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise for 2 1/2 hours, or until tender.
8. Remove from oven and let rest before serving.

Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours

Blackstrap Molasses Pancakes with Cinnamon

Start your day with a flavorful breakfast that combines the richness of blackstrap molasses and the warmth of cinnamon. These pancakes are perfect for a cozy morning treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons blackstrap molasses
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Butter or oil for greasing the pan

Instructions:

1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, molasses, and cinnamon.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Drop batter by 1/4 cupfuls onto the preheated skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on surface and edges start to dry.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes

Dark Chocolate Molasses Fudge

Rich and decadent, this dark chocolate molasses fudge is perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. With the deep flavors of dark chocolate and molasses, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup (200g) dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine chocolate chips, sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream. Place over medium heat; cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 235°F (118°C).
3. Remove from heat; stir in molasses, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour into prepared baking dish; let cool to room temperature.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until firm.

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Molasses Baked Beans with Bacon

Sweet and smoky molasses baked beans are elevated to a new level with the addition of crispy bacon. This comforting side dish is perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight meals.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine soaked navy beans, ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, apple cider vinegar, ground mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until the beans are evenly coated with the mixture.
4. Transfer the bean mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top the beans with crispy bacon pieces.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 6 hours or overnight.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the beans are caramelized and the bacon is crispy.

Cooking Time: 6 hours and 30 minutes

Blackstrap Molasses Smoothie Bowl

A sweet and savory blend of blackstrap molasses, banana, and almond milk, topped with crunchy granola and fresh fruit.

Ingredients:

– 1 ripe banana
– 2 tbsp blackstrap molasses
– 1/2 cup almond milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– 2 tbsp granola
– Fresh fruit (such as sliced strawberries or blueberries)

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine banana, blackstrap molasses, almond milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
2. Blend until smooth and creamy, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Pour into a bowl and top with granola and fresh fruit.

Cooking Time: 5 minutes

Spiced Molasses Pumpkin Pie

Warm up to the season with this unique pie that combines the classic flavors of pumpkin and spice with the rich, velvety texture of molasses.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon molasses
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and spices until well combined.
3. Add heavy cream, eggs, and molasses; whisk until smooth.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
5. Pour filling into the pie crust.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Molasses Marinated Grilled Chicken

Succulent chicken breasts infused with the deep flavors of molasses, perfect for a summer BBQ or weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together molasses, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and thyme.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and shake off excess.
5. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Blackstrap Molasses Banana Bread

Moist banana bread infused with the deep flavor of blackstrap molasses, perfect for a snack or dessert.

Ingredients:

– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup blackstrap molasses
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1 large egg

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed bananas, sugar, melted butter, and molasses. Mix until smooth.
3. Add baking powder, salt, flour, and walnuts (if using). Mix until just combined.
4. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
6. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes

Molasses Pecan Sticky Buns

These sticky buns are infused with the deep flavor of molasses and crunchy texture of pecans, making them a unique twist on the classic breakfast treat.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Roll out the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. Brush with molasses and sprinkle with pecans.
7. Roll the dough into a log, cut into 12 equal pieces, and place on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 20 minutes

Blackstrap Molasses Energy Bites

Kick-start your day with these chewy bites packed with natural energy from blackstrap molasses and wholesome ingredients.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup pitted dates, chopped
– 1/4 cup blackstrap molasses
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. In a food processor, combine oats, dates, and molasses. Process until well combined.
2. Add peanut butter, honey, vanilla extract, and salt. Process until a dough forms.
3. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.

Cooking Time: None! These bites are no-bake and ready in just a few minutes of preparation time.

Molasses Glazed Carrots with Thyme

This recipe is a twist on traditional glazed carrots, featuring the deep flavor of molasses and the earthiness of thyme. Perfect as a side dish for your next dinner party or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together molasses, honey, and olive oil.
3. Add the sliced carrots and toss until they are evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Spread the carrot slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Sprinkle chopped thyme over the carrots and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until carrots are tender and caramelized.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Blackstrap Molasses Cornbread

Warm up with a slice of this dense, moist cornbread infused with the deep flavor of blackstrap molasses.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 2 tablespoons blackstrap molasses
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, melted butter, and molasses until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes

Molasses Spiced Hot Chocolate

Molasses Spiced Hot Chocolate Recipe

Warm up with a rich and decadent hot chocolate infused with the deep flavors of molasses and aromatic spices.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or nonfat)
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for topping (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, warm the milk over low heat.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, molasses, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. Gradually whisk the dry mixture into the warmed milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until hot chocolate reaches desired temperature.
5. If desired, add sugar to taste and stir to dissolve.
6. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Blackstrap Molasses BBQ Sauce

Add a rich, complex flavor to your barbecue with this Blackstrap Molasses BBQ Sauce recipe. This sweet and tangy sauce is perfect for slathering on ribs, chicken, or pork.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup blackstrap molasses
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, blackstrap molasses, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes

Summary

Indulge in the rich, velvety flavor of blackstrap molasses with these 18 delicious recipes. From sweet treats like Blackstrap Molasses Gingerbread Cookies and Dark Chocolate Molasses Fudge to savory dishes like Molasses Glazed BBQ Ribs and Molasses Marinated Grilled Chicken, there’s something for everyone. Even health-conscious eaters will love the nutritious options, such as Healthy Molasses Granola Bars and Blackstrap Molasses Smoothie Bowl. Whether you’re a fan of sweet or savory, these recipes showcase the versatility and depth of flavor that blackstrap molasses brings to any dish.