Grandma Anna'S Refrigerator Cookies
Grandma Anna's Refrigerator Cookies are classic, chewy treats with rich vanilla and caramel notes, perfect for family gatherings or as a nostalgic homemade snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream the butter and sugar together until well combined.
- Add eggs and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, mix dry ingredients: salt, baking soda, cream of tartar, and sifted flour.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing thoroughly to form a stiff dough.
- Divide the dough in half. Roll each half into logs on top of waxed paper.
- Wrap each log in waxed paper and twist the ends to secure.
- Refrigerate the logs overnight to firm the dough.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the chilled dough logs into 3/8-inch thick slices.
- Place slices on a greased cookie sheet, spacing them about 3 inches apart.
- Bake until golden brown, approximately 12-15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're short on time, you can chill the dough for just a few hours instead of overnight. To ensure even baking, rotate your cookie sheets halfway through the baking time. If you prefer a softer cookie, decrease the baking time by a couple of minutes. These cookies pair beautifully with Maureen'S Artichoke Dip for a delightful snack spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea for a perfect afternoon treat. They also make an excellent addition to dessert platters alongside Vicki'S Brownies or Cheese Chili. For a festive touch, consider sprinkling powdered sugar on top before serving or pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, you can freeze the baked cookies in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. Reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their freshness and warmth.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Anna'S Refrigerator Cookies contains roughly 309 calories, with 0g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (106% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron.
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 all-purpose flour instead of sifted flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour without sifting. However, sifting can help aerate the flour and may result in a lighter texture. If you prefer a denser cookie, you can skip the sifting step altogether.
What can I substitute for cream of tartar?
You can substitute cream of tartar with an equal amount of baking powder or lemon juice. If using baking powder, reduce the amount of baking soda slightly, as baking powder already contains it. This substitute will still give your cookies a nice rise and texture.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are golden brown around the edges and lightly set in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. For best results, keep an eye on them after the 12-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
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).