Happy Mole Day!

(Nerds R Us Redux)

I almost forgot today was Mole Day...October 23...10/23...10²³

My chemist husband emailed me this morning to tell me he arrived at work today at 6:02 am...on 10/23.

Avogadro’s number is 6.02 x 10²³. (Actually, it's a longer decimal, carried out to many more places, but 6.02 x 10²³ is its common nickname.) This number, named after the Italian scientist for his contributions to molecular theory, represents the number of particles found in one mole of a substance, the mole being the number of atoms determined experimentally to be found in 12 grams of carbon. Or something like that...of interest mainly to those trying to pass high school chemistry or scientists who work with chemical compounds (said husband being the latter).

Last March 14, Pi Day (3/14...3.14), I wrote about our family celebrating the nerd holidays.* I included a recipe for a Pi Day celebratory pear pie. I also promised a recipe for mol(e)lasses cookies come Mole Day. Well, the day is here and so is the recipe. Enjoy, perhaps after a tamale or enchilada covered in mole poblano sauce... 

 

Mole Day Mol(e)asses Cookies

¾ cup oil
¼ cup dark molasses
1 ¼ cups sugar
2 eggs
2 ¾ cups flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon ginger
¼ teaspoon cloves


In a large bowl, stir together oil, molasses, and 1 cup of the sugar. Add eggs and beat until smooth. Add baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, beating until well combined. Add flour. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until next day.
Place remaining ¼ cup sugar in a small bowl. Roll dough into 1-inch balls, then roll in sugar to coat. Place 2 inches apart on greased baking sheets. Bake in a 350° oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned. Transfer to racks and let cool completely Store airtight.

*The Angle, March 14, 2014

Nerd Girl Problem #25 – England has a magical channel called BBC where shows like Sherlock and Doctor Who originated. America has E!, which boasts Jersey Shore and Keeping Up With the Kardashians.