Granny'S Italian Cookies
Granny's Italian Cookies are delightful treats featuring a tender, buttery texture with subtle vanilla flavor. These cookies are perfect for holidays or everyday indulgence, offering a crisp exterior and soft interior. Their simple ingredients and easy preparation make them a favorite for bakers of all skill levels.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat sugar and Crisco until very creamy.
- Add eggs and beat very well.
- Add vanilla.
- Sift together flour, baking powder, and salt; then thoroughly mix into the batter until it is not sticky.
- Grease cookie sheets.
- Drop batter by teaspoon onto sheets and form with fingers.
- Bake at 400°F until cookies are light brown.
- Ice with powdered sugar and milk frosting.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, beat the eggs separately before adding them to the batter. If you don't have Crisco, unsalted butter can be used as a substitute, but it will alter the flavor slightly. Make sure to sift the flour and baking powder well to avoid lumps. Adjust the flour quantity to achieve a non-sticky consistency. For added flavor, consider incorporating lemon zest or almond extract.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, serve with a side of fruit or a light dessert like Garden Toss Spaghetti. They also make a wonderful treat to share at gatherings, alongside traditional Italian recipes like Baked Lasagne.
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-safe bag. To enjoy them later, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Granny'S Italian Cookies contains roughly 128 calories, with 3g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but be aware that the texture will be denser. It is recommended to mix half whole wheat flour with half all-purpose flour for a balanced outcome.
How can I make these cookies more flavorful?
You can enhance the flavor by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg. Additionally, incorporating mini chocolate chips or nuts can add texture and richness to the cookies.
What can I use for icing if I don't have powdered sugar?
If powdered sugar is unavailable, you can create a simple icing by blending granulated sugar with a little water and vanilla until smooth. Alternatively, a light glaze made from milk and regular sugar can also work.
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).