Grandma'S Santa Claus Cookies
Grandma's Santa Claus Cookies are festive treats with warm cinnamon and nutty flavors, perfect for holiday gatherings and cookie exchanges, appealing to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream together butter, Crisco, and brown sugar.
- Sift together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon and add to the creamed mixture.
- Mix together eggs and nuts and add to the flour mixture.
- Line one or more loaf pans with wax paper and flatten dough into loaf pans, making sure to tap down well.
- Store in refrigerator overnight.
- Just before baking, slice thin and place on a greased cookie sheet.
- Return to refrigerator to keep cool until ready to use.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 8 to 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of the combination of butter and Crisco. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can simply omit the pecans or walnuts and add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips instead. Ensure that the dough is well-tapped in the loaf pans to achieve even slicing. This recipe is perfect for holiday gatherings and pairs well with festive drinks.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but can also be served with a glass of milk or a warm cup of coffee for a cozy treat. For a holiday dessert table, pair them with other festive options like Buttercup Cake or Noodle Kugel (Pudding) to create a well-rounded spread. They make an excellent addition to cookie platters or gift baskets during the holiday season.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresher for longer, you can freeze the sliced cookies in a sealed bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature and warm in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to regain their original texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Santa Claus Cookies contains roughly 207 calories, with 2g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 604mg per serving (26% 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 substitute granulated sugar for brown sugar, but keep in mind that it will alter the flavor and texture slightly. Brown sugar adds moisture and a deeper flavor, while granulated sugar will result in a lighter cookie. If you want a similar taste, consider using half brown sugar and half granulated sugar.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky, try adding a bit more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Also, chilling the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes can help firm it up, making it easier to slice. Just ensure to keep the dough cool while preparing for baking.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make these cookies more festive, consider adding colorful sprinkles on top before baking or incorporating dried cranberries or white chocolate chips into the dough. You can also shape the cookies into holiday-themed designs using cookie cutters for added flair during the holiday season.
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).