Old Fashion Christmas Cookies
Old Fashion Christmas Cookies are classic treats with rich flavors of vanilla, lemon, and nutmeg, perfect for holiday celebrations and sharing with loved ones.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift the flour and measure.
- Add salt, soda, and baking powder to the flour, then sift again.
- Add nutmeg to the sifted flour.
- Cream the shortening; add both sugars and beat well.
- Beat the eggs at one side in the same bowl, then blend with the shortening and sugar mixture.
- Add vanilla and lemon extracts.
- Add the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, and mix thoroughly.
- Chill the dough several hours.
- Roll out the dough and cut into desired shapes.
- Bake at 325°F for approximately 13 minutes or until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, make sure to cream the shortening and sugars until fluffy. You can substitute half of the shortening with unsalted butter for added flavor. If you don't have buttermilk, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice and let it sit for 5 minutes. This recipe is versatile, and you can add chocolate chips or nuts for variation.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings and pair beautifully with a glass of milk or hot cocoa. For an extra festive touch, decorate them with icing or colored sugar. They also make a wonderful gift when packaged in a decorative tin. Consider serving alongside Pam'S Broccoli Corn Casserole for a delightful holiday spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store the baked cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashion Christmas Cookies contains roughly 631 calories, with 6g protein, 50g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2533mg per serving (110% 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 a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe, you can use a gluten-free flour blend if needed. However, the texture may vary slightly. Always check the blend's packaging for any specific recommendations to ensure the best results.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set but slightly soft. They will continue to firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven's calibration.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure to bring the dough to room temperature before rolling it out for best results.
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).