Ammonia Cookies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Delicious ammonia cookies with a crisp texture and subtle lemon flavor, perfect for those seeking a nostalgic treat or a unique baked good for special occasions.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 3/4 cup shortening
  • 1 teaspoon baking ammonia
  • 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon lemon oil
  • flour

Instructions

  1. Cream sugar and shortening; add beaten eggs.
  2. Alternately add milk and dry ingredients (baking powder, baking ammonia, lemon oil, flour) until combined.
  3. Add enough flour to make dough stiff enough to roll out.
  4. Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness and cut with cookie cutter.
  5. Bake at 375°F until lightly browned, about 10 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, sift the flour before adding it to the mixture. If you don't have lemon oil, you can substitute it with a few drops of vanilla extract for a different flavor profile. Make sure to use fresh baking ammonia for the best rise and flavor. Consider adding a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness in your ammonia cookies.

Serving Suggestions

These ammonia cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the experience by serving them alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For an extra treat, consider pairing them with Minted Snow Peas for a refreshing contrast. They also make a great addition to holiday cookie platters, offering a unique flavor among classic favorites.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for a few minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Ammonia Cookies contains roughly 428 calories, with 4g protein, 91g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1008mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).

428 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.2g 8% DV
Total Fat 6.8g 9% DV
Carbs 90.5g 33% DV
Fiber 1.2g 4% DV
Sugar 2.9g 6% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1007.7mg 44% DV
Potassium 438.5mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 116.5mg 39% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 40.1mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 10.2mg 11% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 398.8mg 31% DV
Iron 2mg 11% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

What is baking ammonia and can I use baking soda instead?

Baking ammonia, or ammonium carbonate, gives these cookies a unique texture and flavor. While you can substitute baking soda, it may alter the cookies' texture and taste. If using baking soda, reduce it to 1/2 teaspoon and add a bit of vinegar or lemon juice to activate it.

Can I make these cookies vegan?

Yes, you can make a vegan version by replacing the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce. Use a plant-based shortening and ensure the milk is non-dairy, such as almond or soy milk. The flavor will differ slightly, but they will still be delicious.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when they are lightly browned around the edges and feel firm to the touch. Keep an eye on them, as they can bake quickly at 375°F. If you're unsure, it's better to check a minute or two early to avoid overbaking.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →