Mother'S Old Fashioned Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Cuisine: American

Old-fashioned cookies with a rich, buttery flavor complemented by nutmeg and lemon, perfect for nostalgic baking and enjoyed by family and friends alike.

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Ingredients

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 pint shortening
  • 1/2 pint sour milk
  • 1 teaspoon soda, dissolved in hot water
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients to a soft dough.
  2. Place 1 quart of flour in a mixing bowl and work the other ingredients into the center of the flour.

Tips & Substitutions

For a softer cookie, reduce the baking time slightly and keep an eye on them as they bake. If you don't have sour milk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra flavor. This is a versatile dough that can also be used for variations like Nugget Squares.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are delightful on their own, but you can serve them alongside a glass of milk or a warm cup of tea. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet dessert. For a festive touch, consider serving them during holiday gatherings or with a fruit platter.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes to regain their freshness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Mother'S Old Fashioned Cookies contains roughly 217 calories, with 1g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 488mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).

217 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.7g 1% DV
Total Fat 1.9g 2% DV
Carbs 16g 6% DV
Fiber 1.4g 5% DV
Sugar 7.5g 15% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 488.2mg 21% DV
Potassium 162.4mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 0.9mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.6mcg
Vitamin C 9.1mg 10% DV
Calcium 280.9mg 22% DV
Iron 0.8mg 5% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Milk Egg

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 in this recipe. Just keep in mind that butter will give a slightly different flavor and texture, making the cookies a bit richer and more flavorful.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If the dough is too sticky to handle, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Be careful not to add too much flour, as it can make the cookies dry.

How can I make these cookies more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of these cookies, consider adding spices like cinnamon or allspice, or incorporating chocolate chips or dried fruits like raisins. A sprinkle of sea salt on top before baking can also elevate the taste.

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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