"Ma" Sparks Cookies

Prep: 20 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Ma Sparks Cookies are sweet, buttery treats with a hint of spice, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a comforting snack with a glass of milk.

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Ingredients

  • 2 c. sugar
  • 1 1/3 c. shortening
  • 1 c. sour milk
  • 1 1/2 tsp. soda
  • 1/2 tsp. flavor to taste (cinnamon, nutmeg or 1/4 tsp. cloves)

Instructions

  1. Add enough flour to the mixture to make a stiff dough that can be rolled out.
  2. Roll the dough out to desired thickness.
  3. Slice into cookies of your preferred shape.
  4. Bake at 350°F until golden brown.

Tips & Substitutions

To achieve the perfect texture, consider adding a pinch of salt to enhance flavor. If you don't have sour milk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Feel free to experiment with spices; adding vanilla extract can provide a delightful twist. For a festive touch, try using nutmeg or cloves in place of cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions

These Ma Sparks Cookies are delicious on their own but can be paired with a glass of milk or coffee for a comforting treat. For a festive platter, consider serving them alongside Grandma Connely'S Pineapple Salad for a delightful contrast. They also pair beautifully with Peppermint Frosting for a seasonal twist during the holidays.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them fresh for a longer period, consider freezing them. To reheat, place the cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes to regain their softness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of "Ma" Sparks Cookies contains roughly 614 calories, with 2g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 60g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

614 kcal 31% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.8g 4% DV
Total Fat 60.4g 77% DV
Carbs 20.7g 8% DV
Fiber 3.6g 13% DV
Sugar 0g

Electrolytes

Sodium 32.1mg 1% DV
Potassium 201.5mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 0.1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.3mcg
Vitamin C 29mg 32% DV
Calcium 27.5mg 2% DV
Iron 1.1mg 6% DV
Contains Milk

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, but keep in mind that the texture may be slightly different. Butter will give a richer flavor and a tender cookie, while shortening helps maintain a softer texture. If using butter, consider chilling the dough for better handling.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when they turn golden brown around the edges. Keep a close watch during the last few minutes of baking, as they can quickly go from golden to overbaked. If they look slightly underdone in the center, they will continue to firm up as they cool.

Can I add mix-ins like chocolate chips or nuts?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits to the dough for added flavor and texture. Just be mindful of the overall balance of wet and dry ingredients to ensure the dough remains stiff enough to roll out.

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).

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