Aunt Lydia'S Cookies

Prep: 10 min Cook: 8 min Cuisine: American

Crisp, buttery cookies with a hint of vanilla, pressed with cinnamon sugar, perfect for sharing with friends and family during holidays or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup shortening (Crisco)
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 3/4 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients until well combined.
  2. Drop by small teaspoonfuls onto baking sheet and press with the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar and cinnamon.
  3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until lightly golden.
  4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using half butter and half shortening. If you're out of cream of tartar, you can substitute it with an equal amount of baking powder. Adjust sugar to taste by incorporating brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Chilling the dough for 30 minutes can help with shaping and prevent spreading during baking.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delicious dessert. Pair them with a glass of milk or a hot cup of tea for a comforting treat. They are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet snack during the day.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To freeze, layer them between parchment paper in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to three months. Reheat in a microwave for a few seconds to restore their softness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Aunt Lydia'S Cookies contains roughly 1221 calories, with 13g protein, 164g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value), potassium (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1283mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).

1221 kcal 61% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 12.8g 26% DV
Total Fat 35.8g 46% DV
Carbs 163.9g 60% DV
Fiber 2.7g 10% DV
Sugar 11.4g 23% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1282.9mg 56% DV
Potassium 1380mg 29% DV
Cholesterol 425.7mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 104mcg 12% DV
Vitamin C 22.4mg 25% DV
Calcium 400.9mg 31% DV
Iron 3.8mg 21% 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

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure the blend includes xanthan gum for better texture and structure. This adaptation works well and allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy Aunt Lydia's Cookies.

What can I add to these cookies for extra flavor?

You can incorporate chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins to add flavor and texture. Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can also elevate the taste, making the cookies even more aromatic and appealing.

How can I make these cookies chewier?

To achieve a chewier texture, try using more brown sugar than white sugar and reduce the baking time slightly. Also, adding an extra egg yolk can help maintain moisture and softness in the cookie, resulting in a delightful chew.

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).

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