Grandma'S Italian Frosted Cookies
Grandma's Italian Frosted Cookies are sweet, buttery treats with a delicate texture, perfect for special occasions or enjoying with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt the shortening and let it cool.
- Add sugar, beaten eggs, vanilla, and milk to the cooled shortening and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, combine dry ingredients to make a well, then work the mixture until the dough is smooth.
- Take a piece of dough the size of a walnut and roll it into a rope about the size of your finger.
- Shape the ropes into circles on a baking board.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes or until lightly browned.
- Refrigerate the dough several hours if it is easier to work with.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half butter and half margarine as specified, or substitute with a vegan butter for a dairy-free version. If the dough is too sticky, dust your hands and work surface with flour while shaping. For a fun twist, add sprinkles or colored sugar on top before baking. Chilling the dough can make it easier to handle, so don’t skip that step if needed.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but can be enhanced with a light glaze or frosting for a festive touch. They pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea and make a great addition to any dessert platter. Consider serving alongside Italian recipes like D'Ascenzo'S Italian Biscuits for a themed gathering.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag, where they can last up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm slightly in the oven for a fresh-baked feel.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Italian Frosted Cookies contains roughly 811 calories, with 8g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 43g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (37% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2750mg per serving (120% 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 only butter instead of margarine?
Yes, you can use only butter if you prefer. This will give the cookies a richer flavor and slightly different texture. Just keep in mind that the cookies may spread more during baking, so be sure to watch the baking time closely.
What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky to handle, try chilling it in the refrigerator for an hour. This will firm it up and make it easier to shape. Additionally, you can lightly flour your hands and work surface when shaping the cookies to help manage any stickiness.
Can I add flavors or mix-ins to the cookies?
Absolutely! You can personalize these cookies by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. For a citrus twist, consider incorporating lemon or orange zest into the dough. Just be mindful of the additional moisture from wet ingredients to maintain the right dough consistency.
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).