Aunt Irene'S Sugar Cookies
Aunt Irene's Sugar Cookies are classic, buttery treats with a sweet, tender crumb and just a hint of vanilla. Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or everyday snacking, these cookies are simple to make and loved by all ages for their timeless flavor and soft texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar and Crisco until creamy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in a pinch of salt and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add sweet milk and blend well.
- Stir in gold medal flour and baking powder until a soft dough forms.
- Roll out dough on a floured surface to desired thickness.
- Cut into shapes with cookie cutters or form into balls and flatten.
- Place cookies on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
- Allow cookies to cool on wire racks before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer cookie, reduce the baking time slightly. You can substitute half of the Crisco with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If you don't have sweet milk, regular milk with a teaspoon of sugar can work as a substitute. Ensure your dough is chilled before rolling for easier handling. This recipe also pairs beautifully with Grandma Armstrong'S Banana Pudding.
Serving Suggestions
These sugar cookies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a light icing or sprinkles for special occasions. Serve them with a glass of cold milk or alongside a warm cup of tea. They also make a great addition to cookie platters, especially during holidays. Consider pairing them with Virginia'S Cookies for a variety of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Irene'S Sugar Cookies contains roughly 217 calories, with 3g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but be aware that the texture may slightly differ. Always check the blend's instructions for best results, as they may vary in absorption compared to regular flour.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to roll, sprinkle a little more flour on your work surface and on the dough itself as you roll it out. Alternatively, refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes to firm it up, making it easier to handle.
How can I make these cookies more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. You could also mix in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits for additional texture and taste. Experimenting with flavor variations can yield delicious results!
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).