Paniqueques/Queques Cubanos (Molasses Cookies)

Paniqueques or Queques Cubanos (Cuban Molasses Cookies) are thick, square cookies that are soft, dense, and chewy and, flavored with molasses, brown sugar, cinnamon, and anise extract. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack with cafe con leche or chocolate caliente!

📝 Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 cup dark brown sugar (packed)
• 2 large egg yolks
• 3 tablespoons milk
• 3/4 cup unsulfured molasses
• 1/2 teaspoon anise extract (or vanilla extract)
• 3 1/2 cups whole wheat pastry flour ((you can also sub for all-purpose flour))
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 large egg (beaten for egg wash)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1In a bowl, mix the wet ingredients first until well combined. Mix in all the dry ingredients until a thick dough forms. Place the dough in the freezer to rest for 20 minutes.
2. 2Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.
3. 3Remove the dough from the freezer. Lightly flour a clean work surface, roll the dough into a 1/2-inch thick rectangle, then use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut into 4 x 4-inch squares. If necessary, gather all the dough scraps to roll again and cut more squares.
4. 4Brush egg wash onto each cookie square. Bake for 12-13 minutes. Careful not to overbake as the cookies will continue to harden as they cool. They should be thick squares that are soft, dense, and chewy. Enjoy!