Mike'S Sugar Cookies
Sweet, soft sugar cookies with a hint of vanilla and a light sprinkling of sugar on top, perfect for any occasion or cookie exchange.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375° F.
- Measure and put into a mixing bowl the shortening, sugar, egg, and vanilla.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Sift the flour; measure, then measure the baking soda and salt.
- Sift all the dry ingredients together and add to the shortening mixture.
- Mix all ingredients until smooth.
- Roll the dough into small balls and place on a cookie sheet.
- Spray the cookie sheet with Pam or similar non-stick spray.
- Flatten each ball with a fork.
- Sprinkle sugar on top of each cookie.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, ensuring not to overcook.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using half butter and half shortening. You can substitute the plain flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. If you prefer a richer flavor, add a tablespoon of milk or cream to the dough. Ensure to roll the dough into uniform balls for even baking, and feel free to experiment with adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These sugar cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Consider pairing them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. They also make a great addition to dessert platters at parties, and they can be decorated with icing for festive occasions. Browse more American recipes for other delightful treats.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. To reheat, place cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to restore their freshness and texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mike'S Sugar Cookies contains roughly 270 calories, with 4g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2034mg per serving (88% 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 margarine instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for shortening, but the texture may be slightly different. Margarine has a higher water content, which can result in softer cookies. Try using a blend of margarine and butter for a better flavor and texture.
How can I make these cookies festive for holidays?
To make these cookies more festive, consider adding colored sprinkles or holiday-themed decorations on top before baking. You can also use cookie cutters to create fun shapes or ice them with royal icing for an extra special touch.
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to roll into balls. Alternatively, you can dust your hands and the work surface with a little flour to help manage the stickiness.
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).