Great Grandmother'S Hoe-Downs(Sugar Cookies)
Great Grandmother's Hoe-Downs are delightful sugar cookies with a hint of nutmeg and lemon, perfect for family gatherings and nostalgic treats. Their crisp edges and tender centers, topped with raisins and sugar, make them a charming addition to any cookie platter, appealing to all ages with their classic flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream butter and sugar together.
- Add eggs, sour milk, and lemon extract; beat after each addition.
- Sift soda, baking powder, nutmeg, and flour together.
- Chill dough for 30 minutes. Flour hands.
- Roll a portion of dough into small egg-sized balls.
- Dip or roll the balls in a bowl of sugar.
- Flatten each ball with two fingers.
- Place 2 or 3 raisins in the center of each cookie.
- Bake until light brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer cookie, consider using half butter and half margarine. You can substitute the sour milk with buttermilk or regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar. If you want to enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon along with the nutmeg. Chilling the dough is crucial; it helps maintain the shape while baking. Don't skip the sugar coating for a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
These sugar cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with Lemon Whippersnaps Cookies for a delightful dessert platter. You can also serve them with a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a zip-top bag. To reheat, pop them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes to restore their softness without drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Great Grandmother'S Hoe-Downs(Sugar Cookies) contains roughly 2372 calories, with 3g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 249g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 495mg per serving (22% 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 sweetener instead of sugar?
Yes, you can substitute granulated sugar with alternatives like coconut sugar or a sugar substitute suitable for baking. Keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and texture slightly, so adjust accordingly.
What can I use instead of raisins?
If raisins aren't your preference, you can replace them with chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries for a different flavor profile. Each option will add a unique twist to the classic cookie.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To add a festive touch, use colored sugar for rolling the cookies or top them with sprinkles before baking. You can also incorporate seasonal spices like ginger or cloves for a holiday flavor. Consider pairing them with Cinnamon Nut Cake for a delightful dessert spread.
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).