Calumet Sugar Cookies
Sweet and spiced sugar cookies with nutmeg and cloves, perfect for holiday gatherings or teatime treats, offering a crisp texture and aromatic flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the shortening and sugar together until well blended.
- Beat in the whipped eggs one at a time.
- Add the baking powder and 1 cup of flour, then stir in the water or milk and spices.
- Gradually add the remaining flour, working in more flour until the dough is stiff enough to roll.
- Sprinkle flour over the pastry board.
- Make a ball of dough and place it on the floured surface.
- Roll out the dough into two sheets, each about 1/4-inch thick.
- Cut the dough into round cakes using a cookie cutter.
- Sift granulated sugar over each cookie.
- Bake quickly at 400° to 450° Fahrenheit until lightly browned.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using butter instead of shortening, or a half-and-half mixture of both. If you prefer a different spice profile, cinnamon can be substituted for nutmeg, and allspice can replace cloves. Ensure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rise. Chill the dough for 30 minutes for easier rolling, which can also yield a firmer cookie texture.
Serving Suggestions
These Calumet Sugar Cookies are delightful on their own but also pair beautifully with a glass of milk or a cup of hot tea. For a festive touch, consider icing them with royal icing or serving alongside Mom's Creamy Cheesecake for a sweet dessert platter. They also make a wonderful addition to holiday cookie trays or as a treat for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes, restoring their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Calumet Sugar Cookies contains roughly 236 calories, with 4g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of iron (10% 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 gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. However, the texture may vary slightly. Make sure to check if your blend contains xanthan gum, as that can help with binding and structure.
What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky to roll out, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until a workable consistency is achieved. Alternatively, you can chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, which can help it firm up.
How can I make my cookies softer?
To achieve softer cookies, avoid overbaking them; take them out of the oven when they are just lightly browned. You can also add an extra egg yolk to the dough for added moisture, or incorporate a tablespoon of cornstarch to the flour for a tender texture.
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).