Grandma Meda'S Sugar Icebox Cookies
Sweet and buttery sugar icebox cookies with nutty crunch, perfect for slicing into thin wafers and enjoyed as a classic treat or holiday snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat butter, sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until light and fluffy.
- Add flour, chopped walnuts or pecans, soda, and vanilla.
- Mix well to form a dough.
- Divide the dough into two rectangles and roll each into waxed paper.
- Chill overnight.
- Slice very thin (1/4-inch or less).
- Bake in a 350°F oven until golden on the edges.
- Remove immediately from the cookie sheet.
- Cookies freeze well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a nut-free version, you can replace the chopped walnuts or pecans with chocolate chips or dried fruit. Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly; this helps the cookies maintain their shape while baking. You can also experiment with different extracts, like almond or lemon, for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a glass of milk or a cup of coffee. They also pair beautifully with Dreamy Raspberry Salad for a refreshing contrast. For a dessert platter, consider serving them alongside slices of Oven Pound Cake or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, place them in the freezer, layered between parchment paper, and seal in a freezer bag. To enjoy frozen cookies, simply thaw at room temperature for a few minutes or warm them in the oven for a few minutes at 300°F to regain their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Meda'S Sugar Icebox Cookies contains roughly 1557 calories, with 21g protein, 258g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (49% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1191mg per serving (52% 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 a different type of sugar?
Yes, you can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that using a liquid sweetener may affect the dough's consistency, so you might need to adjust the flour slightly to compensate.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough feels too sticky to handle, try chilling it for an additional 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface when rolling out the dough, but be cautious not to add too much, as it can alter the cookie's texture.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make these cookies more festive, consider adding colored sprinkles or holiday-themed toppings before baking. You can also drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for an elegant finish, making them perfect for gatherings or celebrations.
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).