Combine butter, brown sugar, and sugar in the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat together on medium speed for 2 minutes.
1 cup + 3 tablespoons salted butter, 1 cup light brown sugar, 2/3 cup granulated sugar
Add the eggs, molasses, and vanilla to the butter mixture and mix to combine.
1 large egg, 1 large egg yolk, 1/4 cup molasses, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Add the flour mixture and mix on low speed until just incorporated.
In a small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon.
1 cup granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Portion the dough into 16 sections.
Roll each portion into a dough ball and roll it in the sugar/cinnamon until well coated.
Place 6 dough balls onto the prepared large baking sheet, placing each one 3” apart.
Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven on the center rack.
Bake for 8 minutes, then remove the pan from the oven and bang it against the counter to slightly flatten the cookies.
Place it back into the oven and continue baking for an additional 5 minutes, until the edges are just set.
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them sit on the pan for 5 minutes to allow them to set up.
Once slightly set, transfer them to a wire rack to let cool completely.
Repeat with the remaining dough balls.
Notes
Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and egg for the best results. This helps the ingredients combine smoothly and ensures a better texture in the final cookie.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the dry ingredients just until combined to avoid tough cookies. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a less desirable texture.
Chill the Dough: If your cookie dough is too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before baking. This will help the cookies keep their shape during baking.
Use a Cookie Scoop: For evenly sized cookies, use a cookie scoop to portion out the dough. This makes sure that all cookies bake evenly and have the same chewy texture.
Bang the Pan: Halfway through baking, bang the baking sheet on the counter to help the cookies spread and create that signature chewy center.
Use Parchment Paper: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.