Molasses cookies

When I was grocery shopping yesterday, I saw these big boxes of cookies on sale. They were branded with children's characters and were obviously being marketed at the under-ten set. I wasn't actually overly concerned by the ingredients, although why anyone needs to buy cookies made in China with vegetable oil as the third listed ingredient is beyond me. Here's the packaging:

In terms of commercially produced kids' food, these aren't too outrageously dreadful, but I still felt compelled to make a batch of my own.

I decided to experiment with molasses which, depending on who you speak to, is either a mineral-rich superfood alternative to powdered sugar, or a carb-laden sweetener with no perks whatsoever. I have always loved liquorice and molasses has a flavour balance reminiscent of that aniseedy lolly, and you need less of it than its counterparts to give a gentle sweetness.

Without further ado, here's the recipe:

70g unsalted butter (room temp)
150g organic spelt flour
2 teaspoons molasses
1 tsp caster sugar
3 cubes organic dark choc to melt for the backs (optional)

Mix butter, molasses, sugar and flour until combined and a dough has formed. Turn out onto the bench and knead, then roll until 1cm thick. Cut desired shapes and bake at 180' (fan forced) until cooked through and lightly browned.

Use a pastry brush to paint melted chocolate onto the backs of the animals, if using.