Basic Cookie Mix
A versatile basic cookie mix that combines rich shortening and sweet sugar with flour, dry milk, and leavening for delicious homemade cookies suitable for all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a 6-quart or larger bowl, cream shortening and sugar with an electric mixer, gradually adding sugar to the shortening.
- Blend thoroughly.
- Add the remaining ingredients: sifted all-purpose flour, nonfat dry milk, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture slowly, using low speed.
- Mix until the mixture resembles coarse cornmeal.
- Store in a tightly covered container.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt. If you want to use whole wheat flour, reduce the amount slightly, as it absorbs more liquid. Adding vanilla extract or almond extract can enhance the flavor significantly. For a fun twist, mix in chocolate chips or nuts to the dough before baking.
Serving Suggestions
This basic cookie mix is incredibly versatile and can be used to make a variety of cookies. Serve them warm with a glass of milk or pair them with Raspberry Yogurt And Fruit for a delightful dessert. You can also sandwich them with frosting or ice cream for a fun treat. Consider offering them at parties or gatherings as crowd-pleasing snacks.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cookie mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 months. For longer storage, consider refrigerating or freezing the mix. When ready to use, simply scoop the desired amount, add wet ingredients according to your cookie recipe, and bake. If frozen, allow it to come to room temperature before use.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Cookie Mix contains roughly 1390 calories, with 12g protein, 76g carbohydrates, and 121g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (98% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2294mg per serving (100% of the Daily Value).
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 margarine instead of shortening?
Yes, margarine can be substituted for shortening, but it may alter the texture slightly. Cookies made with margarine tend to spread more during baking. If you prefer a firmer cookie, use a blend of margarine and shortening.
How do I make the cookies softer?
To achieve softer cookies, you can add more fat by increasing the shortening or using brown sugar instead of white sugar. Make sure not to overmix the dough, as this can lead to tougher cookies. Additionally, underbaking slightly can also contribute to a softer texture.
What can I add to make these cookies more flavorful?
In addition to vanilla extract, you can incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. Adding mix-ins such as dried fruits, nuts, or chocolate chips can also enhance the flavor. For a unique twist, try adding a pinch of sea salt on top before baking.
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).