French Lace Cookies
French Lace Cookies are delicate, crispy treats that combine the rich flavors of brown sugar and nuts, with a hint of sweetness from corn syrup. Perfect for tea parties or holiday gatherings, these cookies offer a delightful texture and are sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 375°.
- Measure flour and blend with nuts.
- Bring corn syrup, shortening, and brown sugar to a boil in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and gradually stir in flour and nuts.
- Drop batter by level teaspoonfuls, about 3 inches apart, on a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Bake only 8 to 9 cookies at a time for 5 to 6 minutes; remove from oven and allow to stand for 5 minutes before removing from baking sheet.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal texture, ensure your shortening is softened but not melted. If you prefer, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour for a nuttier flavor. Keep an eye on the cookies while baking, as they can go from perfectly crisp to overdone very quickly. Experiment with different nuts like pecans or walnuts for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These delicate French Lace Cookies make a delightful accompaniment to tea or coffee. For an elegant presentation, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate dip. They also pair beautifully with a refreshing glass of Fresh Lemon Tonic for a bright contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm briefly in the oven.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Lace Cookies contains roughly 80 calories, with 1g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 3g 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 sweetener instead of corn syrup?
Yes, you can substitute corn syrup with honey or agave syrup, but keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Adjust the amount based on sweetness preference, as honey tends to be sweeter than corn syrup.
What should I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, try chilling the dough for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the fats solidify again, which can prevent spreading. Additionally, ensure your baking sheet is cool before adding the next batch of cookies.
How can I make these cookies gluten-free?
To make gluten-free French Lace Cookies, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that contains xanthan gum or add a pinch to help bind the ingredients together. This will help maintain the texture while keeping it gluten-free.
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).