Ethel'S Sugar Cookies
Sweet, buttery sugar cookies with a crisp edge and tender center, perfect for holiday baking, special occasions, or anytime you crave classic, simple treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the margarine, sugar, eggs, and vanilla together.
- Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until well blended.
- Chill the dough for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Roll the dough to 1/8 inch thickness on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
- Place the cutouts on ungreased baking sheets.
- Bake for 6 to 8 minutes until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsalted butter. If you prefer a slightly different texture, try adding a tablespoon of cornstarch to the flour mixture. To enhance the sweetness, you can add a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top after baking. Ensure the dough is well-chilled before rolling to avoid stickiness. These cookies also pair wonderfully with a glass of milk.
Serving Suggestions
These sugar cookies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with royal icing for decoration or sprinkles for a fun touch. Serve them alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee. They also make a great addition to dessert platters, especially when paired with other treats like Chocolate Butterscotch Drops or Mud Brownies for variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cooled sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh for longer, you can freeze them. Place in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ethel'S Sugar Cookies contains roughly 65 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 fat instead of margarine?
Yes, you can substitute margarine with unsalted butter or coconut oil for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that butter will enhance the flavor, while coconut oil will add a hint of tropical taste. Just ensure to use the same measurement as margarine.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are lightly golden around the edges and still look slightly soft in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet, so be careful not to overbake them.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 2 days in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to use, let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes to make rolling easier.
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).