Mary Jeanette'S Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cuisine: American

Delicious homemade cookies featuring a rich brown sugar flavor, with a tender crumb and a hint of vanilla, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 c. brown sugar
  • 1 c. shortening
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 Tbsp. warm water
  • 1 tsp. soda
  • 1 tsp. baking powder
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 3 to 4 c. flour

Instructions

  1. Mix sugar, shortening, and unbeaten eggs well.
  2. Add warm water with soda dissolved and vanilla; mix.
  3. Add flour gradually until dough is stiff enough to handle with hands.
  4. Roll into small balls and press fairly flat with a fancy bottom of a dish dipped in granulated sugar.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with butter. If you prefer a softer cookie, reduce the flour slightly to achieve the desired dough consistency. Make sure to dissolve the baking soda in warm water thoroughly to ensure even distribution in the batter. For added texture, try mixing in chocolate chips or nuts, which are popular in American recipes.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies make a delightful treat with a cup of coffee or tea. For a fun dessert, serve them alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider pairing them with Chocolate Decorating Frosting for a playful twist. You can also enjoy them as a snack with a glass of cold milk, making them perfect for any gathering.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. To keep them fresh, you can also refrigerate them; just allow them to come to room temperature before serving. If you want to freeze them, place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mary Jeanette'S Cookies contains roughly 706 calories, with 8g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (23% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 495mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).

706 kcal 35% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8g 16% DV
Total Fat 25.9g 33% DV
Carbs 75.2g 27% DV
Fiber 2.1g 7% DV
Sugar 15.1g 30% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 494.5mg 22% DV
Potassium 190mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 3.5mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1.4mcg
Vitamin C 0mg
Calcium 292.5mg 22% DV
Iron 4.2mg 23% DV
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 substitute the shortening in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute half of the shortening with butter for a richer taste. Alternatively, coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, so adjust the flour as needed to achieve the right dough consistency.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges and set in the center. They will continue to firm up as they cool on the baking sheet. If you prefer a softer cookie, you can slightly underbake them for a chewier texture.

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

Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit can enhance the flavor and texture of the cookies. Just fold them into the dough after adding the flour, ensuring they are evenly distributed for the best result.

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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