Karen Leonard'S Spice Cookies
Delight in these aromatic spice cookies featuring warm nutmeg and cinnamon, perfect for festive occasions or a cozy treat with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift and measure the flour; add salt, cream of tartar, baking soda, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- Sift the dry ingredients together.
- In a separate bowl, cream the shortening and sugar until fluffy.
- Add the egg and beat until creamy. Stir in milk and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing well.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 2 hours until easy to handle.
- Roll the dough on a floured surface to a thickness of 1/8 to 1/4 inch.
- Cut out cookies with cookie cutters.
- Place the cutouts on a greased cookie sheet.
- Brush the cutouts with beaten egg white and sprinkle with sugar, if desired.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or until lightly golden.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Spice Cookies, consider adding a pinch of ground ginger or allspice for extra warmth. If you're out of shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of unsalted butter for a richer taste. Make sure to chill the dough well; this helps the cookies maintain their shape during baking. For a fun twist, try adding chocolate chips or dried fruits to the dough.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Spice Cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful snack. They can also be a festive addition to holiday cookie platters, alongside other treats like Old-Fashioned Sour Cream Cookies. For a creative twist, sandwich two cookies with cream cheese frosting or a dollop of jam to elevate your dessert experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or briefly warm in the microwave for a fresh-baked taste.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Karen Leonard'S Spice Cookies contains roughly 181 calories, with 3g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is a good source of potassium (15% 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 make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can easily make vegan Spice Cookies by replacing the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) and using a plant-based shortening or coconut oil. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan treat without compromising on flavor.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is sticky, try chilling it for a longer period to firm it up. Additionally, you can sprinkle a little extra flour on your work surface and rolling pin to help manage stickiness. Be careful not to add too much flour, as it can alter the texture of the cookies.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make your Spice Cookies more festive, consider adding colorful sprinkles or icing on top after baking. You can also incorporate seasonal spices like cloves or cardamom into the dough. Present them in decorative tins or boxes to make an impressive holiday gift!
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).