"Mrs. Vera'S" Icebox Cookies
Mrs. Vera's Icebox Cookies are classic, buttery treats with a nutty crunch and vanilla flavor, perfect for sharing with friends and family during holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs.
- Add sugar, oleo (butter), and vanilla to the eggs and mix well.
- In another bowl, combine the self-rising flour and finely chopped nuts.
- Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.
- Pour the sugar, oleo, and vanilla mixture into the well.
- Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape the dough into a roll, wrap in wax paper, and refrigerate until firm.
- Slice the chilled dough into thin cookies and place on baking sheets.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until lightly golden, about 8-10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using salted butter instead of oleo. If you’re out of self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining all-purpose flour with baking powder and salt. To add a twist, try incorporating chocolate chips or dried fruit. Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly to achieve the perfect sliceable consistency.
Serving Suggestions
These delightful icebox cookies pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk or a warm cup of tea. For a festive touch, serve alongside Aunt Lill's Overnight Salad at gatherings. They also make a great snack or dessert option for a picnic, enhancing your spread with their sweet, nutty flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the unbaked dough rolls wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to three months. When ready to bake, slice directly from the freezer and add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Mrs. Vera'S" Icebox Cookies contains roughly 1183 calories, with 21g protein, 229g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), protein (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 521mg per serving (23% 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 oleo (butter)?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for oleo in this recipe. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture might slightly differ, as margarine typically contains more water. For the best results, choose a stick margarine that is suitable for baking.
What types of nuts work best in this recipe?
You can use a variety of nuts based on your preference. Pecans and walnuts are popular choices that add a lovely crunch and flavor. For a sweeter twist, try using finely chopped hazelnuts. Just ensure they are unsalted to maintain the balance of flavors.
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can make gluten-free icebox cookies by substituting the self-rising flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum or add it separately to help with the structure of the 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).