Grandma Grimes' Sugar Cookies
Buttery, spiced sugar cookies with a hint of nutmeg, perfect for holidays or everyday treats, suitable for all ages and occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, baking powder, nutmeg, vanilla, and sugar in a bowl.
- Add soda to the buttermilk.
- Add eggs, shortening, and the buttermilk with soda to the dry ingredients.
- Knead the mixture as for biscuits. Sprinkle with flour if necessary.
- Roll the dough thin on a pastry sheet. Cut with cookie cutter.
- Sprinkle each cookie with sugar.
- Bake at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes or until brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, sift the flour before measuring. If you're out of buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. You may also use unsalted butter instead of shortening for a richer flavor. Be careful not to over-knead the dough to maintain tenderness, and consider adding a pinch of cinnamon for added warmth.
Serving Suggestions
These sugar cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For a festive touch, serve them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or pair with a glass of milk. They also make a delightful addition to dessert platters, complementing other favorites like Laura'S Cherry Brownies.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy them later, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to regain softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Grimes' Sugar Cookies contains roughly 1272 calories, with 26g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 57g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (101% of the Daily Value), calcium (56% of the Daily Value), and protein (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 815mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
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 whole wheat flour instead of plain flour?
You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but it may result in a denser cookie. To maintain lightness, consider mixing half whole wheat and half plain flour. This gives a nutty flavor while keeping some of the cookie's tenderness.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are lightly browned around the edges and feel set in the center. You can also lightly press the top of a cookie; if it springs back, it's ready. Keep a close eye on them, as oven times can vary.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or even dried fruit for extra flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the added ingredients' moisture content, as this could slightly alter the baking time.
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).