Golden Sugar Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Golden Sugar Cookies are delightfully crisp and buttery with a hint of lemon and vanilla, making them perfect for teatime or special occasions. Their rich flavor and tender texture appeal to both kids and adults, offering a classic treat that can be enjoyed plain or decorated for any celebration.

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Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 cups sifted flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 3 egg yolks

Instructions

  1. Sift flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt together; set aside.
  2. Cream softened butter and vanilla until soft and smooth.
  3. Gradually add sugar, beating until fluffy.
  4. Add egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Add dry ingredients to the creamed mixture and beat until well blended.
  6. Form dough into 1-inch balls and place about 2 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet.
  7. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of lemon zest to the dough alongside the lemon juice. If you want a softer cookie, reduce the baking time by a minute or two. You can substitute half of the butter with cream cheese for a richer texture. For a gluten-free version, swap the flour with a gluten-free blend. These golden sugar cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside your favorite cup of tea.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these golden sugar cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of hot cocoa for a delightful snack. They also pair beautifully with a slice of Gouda Cheese for a sweet and savory combination. Consider adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top before serving for an elegant touch, or enjoy them alongside a bowl of fresh fruit for a refreshing contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warmed through and slightly crisp.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Golden Sugar Cookies contains roughly 224 calories, with 8g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (72% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 544mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).

224 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.4g 17% DV
Total Fat 15.2g 19% DV
Carbs 12.7g 5% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 0.1g

Electrolytes

Sodium 543.6mg 24% DV
Potassium 3367.2mg 72% DV
Cholesterol 578mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 120.8mcg 13% DV
Vitamin C 0.1mg
Vitamin D 2.6mcg 13% DV
Calcium 74.1mg 6% DV
Iron 3.2mg 18% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 make these cookies ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. Just let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before rolling it into balls and baking. This is a great way to have fresh cookies ready for unexpected guests.

What can I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to handle, try chilling it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will firm up the butter and make it easier to roll into balls. Alternatively, you can lightly flour your hands while shaping the cookies.

Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?

Yes, if you need to replace the eggs, you can use applesauce or mashed banana, using 1/4 cup for each egg yolk. This will alter the flavor slightly but will keep your cookies moist and delicious. You can also use a commercial egg replacer according to package instructions.

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).

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