Michigan Cookies

Prep: 60 min Cook: 15 min Cuisine: American

Michigan Cookies are classic, slightly spiced cookies with a tender crumb and warm nutmeg flavor, perfect for holiday treats or everyday snacking with a glass of milk.

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup soft butter or oleo
  • 1 1/2 cups sugar
  • 1 egg, slightly beaten
  • 2 1/2 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 teaspoons milk

Instructions

  1. Beat butter with sugar using a wooden spoon.
  2. Beat in the egg.
  3. Add dry ingredients along with milk and vanilla.
  4. Mix well.
  5. Cover and chill the dough for 1 hour.
  6. Shape the chilled dough into balls.
  7. Place the balls on a greased cookie sheet.
  8. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  9. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until lightly golden.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. You can substitute nutmeg with cinnamon for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Chill the dough thoroughly to prevent spreading during baking. This recipe also works well with added chocolate chips for a twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot tea for a delightful snack. They pair beautifully with Helen'S Red Potatoes when served as a dessert after a hearty meal. You can also enjoy them with fresh fruit or ice cream for an indulgent treat.

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, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, microwave for 10-15 seconds or bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes until warm.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Michigan Cookies contains roughly 791 calories, with 6g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and potassium (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1642mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).

791 kcal 40% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 6.4g 13% DV
Total Fat 5.1g 7% DV
Carbs 95.2g 35% DV
Fiber 4.3g 15% DV
Sugar 19.6g 39% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1641.7mg 71% DV
Potassium 1190.8mg 25% DV
Cholesterol 155.8mg 52% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 40.2mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 33.1mg 37% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 447.7mg 34% DV
Iron 2.7mg 15% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Milk 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 use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, you can use margarine as a substitute for butter in this recipe. However, the texture may vary slightly. Choose a stick margarine for the best results, as tub margarine may contain more water and affect the dough consistency.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to handle, try chilling it in the refrigerator for an additional 30 minutes. If it remains sticky, you can gradually add a little more flour until it reaches the desired consistency. Be careful not to add too much, as it can alter the texture of the cookies.

How can I make these cookies more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract alongside the vanilla. You can also mix in chopped nuts or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added texture and flavor. Experimenting with spices like cinnamon can also elevate the taste of your cookies.

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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