Grandma Ballard'S Sugar Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Grandma Ballard's Sugar Cookies are crisp, sweet treats with a buttery flavor, perfect for holidays or everyday snacking, appealing to all ages with their simple, classic charm.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup Crisco, lard or butter
  • 3 eggs
  • small spoon soda
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

  1. Add enough flour to the mixture to make a soft dough, about 3 to 4 cups.
  2. Roll out the dough thin and cut with cookie cutters.
  3. Sprinkle sugar on top of the cookies.
  4. Bake at 350° to 375° for about 8 to 10 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a softer cookie, be cautious not to overmix the dough once the flour is incorporated. If you prefer a lighter option, substitute half of the Crisco with unsweetened applesauce. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the flavor, especially if using unsalted butter. Make sure to use fresh baking soda for the best rise.

Serving Suggestions

These sugar cookies are delightful on their own but can also be paired with a glass of milk or a hot beverage like Mocha Flavored Coffee for a cozy treat. Consider serving them alongside New Orleans Style Bread Pudding for a festive dessert spread during gatherings or holidays.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a zip-top bag for up to three months. To reheat, warm in a 300°F oven for a few minutes until just soft.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandma Ballard'S Sugar Cookies contains roughly 426 calories, with 5g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

426 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.6g 9% DV
Total Fat 4g 5% DV
Carbs 60.6g 22% DV
Fiber 4g 14% DV
Sugar 7.6g 15% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 123.9mg 5% DV
Potassium 516.9mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 98.2mg 33% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 24.2mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 32.8mg 36% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 114.7mg 9% DV
Iron 1.4mg 8% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

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 Crisco?

Yes, you can substitute Crisco with an equal amount of unsalted butter or lard. Each option will impart a slightly different flavor and texture to the cookies. If using butter, ensure it's softened for easier mixing.

How can I make these cookies more festive?

To add a festive touch, consider incorporating sprinkles or colored sugar on top before baking. You can also mix in chocolate chips or nuts into the dough for added flavor and texture, making these cookies perfect for holiday celebrations.

What is the best way to roll out the dough?

To roll out the dough easily, lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking. Aim for an even thickness of about 1/4 inch for consistent baking. If the dough becomes too soft, chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before rolling.

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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