Grandma'S Sugar Cookie Recipe
Sweet sugar cookies with a tender crumb and vanilla flavor, perfect for decorating or enjoying as a classic treat for family gatherings and celebrations.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together sugar, shortening, eggs, and sour milk until well combined.
- Gradually add the flour, soda, baking powder, salt, and vanilla, mixing until incorporated.
- Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured board.
- Knead until the dough loses its stickiness.
- Roll out the dough and cut with cookie cutters.
- Bake at 350°F for about 8 minutes.
- Allow cookies to cool before icing with fondant.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. If you don't have sour milk, you can make your own by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk. Also, chill the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to work with. This recipe can easily be doubled for larger batches, perfect for cookie exchanges.
Serving Suggestions
These sugar cookies are perfect for decorating with icing or fondant, making them a fun activity for kids and adults alike. Serve them with a glass of milk or hot cocoa for a delightful treat. They also pair beautifully with Lemon-Butter Cups for a sweet dessert table or festive occasion.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, pop them in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to restore their texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma'S Sugar Cookie Recipe contains roughly 571 calories, with 0g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 60g fat.
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 butter instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute butter for shortening in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different; using butter will yield a richer flavor and a softer cookie. If you prefer a firmer texture, consider using half butter and half shortening.
What if I don't have baking powder?
If you don't have baking powder, you can make your own by combining 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda with 1/2 teaspoon of cream of tartar for each teaspoon needed. Just ensure to adjust the amounts based on your specific needs in the recipe.
Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips is a great way to enhance these sugar cookies. Fold in about 1 to 2 cups of semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips into the dough after mixing in the dry ingredients for a delicious variation.
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).