Grandma Jacobsens Icebox Cookies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 15 min Cuisine: American

Grandma Jacobsen's Icebox Cookies are classic, buttery treats with a hint of vanilla and crunch from chopped nuts, perfect for baking ahead and slicing fresh.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter or margarine
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 cups flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • Chopped nuts (black walnuts)

Instructions

  1. Cream butter and sugar, beating well until smooth.
  2. Add egg and vanilla, mixing thoroughly.
  3. Blend in the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
  4. Divide the dough into two portions, roll into logs, wrap in wax paper, and refrigerate.
  5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Slice the chilled rolls into thin cookies.
  7. Bake on an ungreased sheet for 12 to 15 minutes until golden.
  8. Allow cookies to cool before serving. They improve in flavor after a while.

Tips & Substitutions

For a twist, consider adding chocolate chips or substituting half of the walnuts with pecans. If you prefer a softer cookie, reduce baking time slightly. Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier creaming. If you want to make these cookies even more indulgent, try pairing them with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful dessert experience, similar to the Peanut Butter Cookie Pops.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delightful cookies with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of coffee for a classic pairing. They also make a wonderful addition to dessert platters or cookie trays during gatherings. For a festive touch, consider serving them alongside Munsy'S Biscuit Pudding(Old Family Recipe) or other holiday treats for a well-rounded dessert experience.

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, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the oven for a few minutes to restore their freshness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Grandma Jacobsens Icebox Cookies contains roughly 791 calories, with 18g protein, 158g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (40% of the Daily Value), protein (36% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 520mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).

791 kcal 40% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 17.8g 36% DV
Total Fat 6.6g 9% DV
Carbs 157.7g 57% DV
Fiber 5.9g 21% DV
Sugar 1.9g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 519.9mg 23% DV
Potassium 726.7mg 15% DV
Cholesterol 158.6mg 53% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 37.8mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 22mg 24% DV
Calcium 170.9mg 13% DV
Iron 7.1mg 40% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

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 margarine instead of butter?

Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter in this recipe. However, using butter will provide a richer flavor and better texture. If you choose margarine, opt for a stick variety for the best results.

What if I don't have cream of tartar?

If you don't have cream of tartar on hand, you can substitute it with an equal amount of baking powder. Alternatively, using 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or white vinegar can also help provide similar acidity for the cookies.

Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cookie dough logs wrapped in wax paper. When ready to bake, simply slice the frozen dough and bake as directed. This method allows you to enjoy fresh cookies anytime without the hassle of making dough from scratch.

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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