Carolyn'S Sugar Cookies
Sweet and buttery sugar cookies with a classic flavor, perfect for any occasion. Easily customizable and loved by all ages, ideal for baking with family or friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix shortening or oleo, sugar, eggs, water, and vanilla together; cream until well blended.
- Sift flour, baking powder, and salt; gradually blend into the creamed mixture.
- Roll out on a floured board and cut into desired shapes.
- Bake at 350°F for 5 to 10 minutes, checking often to prevent burning.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half shortening and half unsalted butter. You can also substitute 1/4 cup of sugar with powdered sugar for an even smoother dough. If you want to enhance the flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or almond extract. For a fun twist, mix in chocolate chips or sprinkles before baking. Remember to chill the dough for 30 minutes if it’s too soft to roll out.
Serving Suggestions
These sugar cookies are delightful on their own or can be decorated with icing for special occasions. Serve them alongside a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a cozy snack. They also pair beautifully with Aunt Patty'S 24 Hour Salad for a festive gathering. Consider adding a side of fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the microwave for a few seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carolyn'S Sugar Cookies contains roughly 186 calories, with 1g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2233mg per serving (97% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but the texture will differ. Whole wheat flour may make the cookies denser. To maintain a lighter texture, consider mixing half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour. This will add some nutrition while still keeping them enjoyable.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make these sugar cookies more festive, consider adding food coloring to your dough or using cookie cutters in fun holiday shapes. Decorating with icing or sprinkles can also elevate their appearance. For a seasonal twist, add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
What’s the best way to prevent cookies from spreading too much while baking?
To prevent spreading, make sure your butter or shortening is at the right temperature—soft but not melted. Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out can also help maintain their shape. Additionally, avoid overmixing once you add the flour.
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).