I have read about adding dry molasses to a compost pile to increase microbial activity. Can regular cooking molasses (syrupy form) like the kind bought at the store be used also?

Yes! Any kind of sugary carbohydrate source will increase micobial growth in the compost pile, compost tea, or the topsoil.

However molasses products offers more nutrients, plus a wider range of beneficial bacterial, fungal, and algae growth.

Thanks for the reply. How would I apply regular cooking molasses to my compost pile?

An ounce or more of liquid molasses per 27 cubic feet (3'x3'x3') of compost is plenty per couple of weeks.

I have to ask the question, "Why do you want to buy brand new stuff and throw it away?" Compost piles are not supposed to be made from brand new stuff. They are made from farm and garden waste.

Good point. I am relatively new at this and was having trouble with the pile heating up. It is now doing fine (with no molasses added) and is in the 140 degree range.

I think a hot pile is overrated. I have not had a hot pile in years. If I want one, I go get some fresh horse dung and plop it in.