Old Fashioned Christmas Cookies
Old Fashioned Christmas Cookies offer a nostalgic treat with a buttery, sweet flavor complemented by vanilla. Perfect for holiday gatherings, these versatile cookies can be decorated in various styles and are loved by both kids and adults alike for their classic taste and soft texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Mix well. Add shortening and cut into the flour mixture with a pastry blender.
- Break eggs into a cup and fill with milk to make 1 cup; add vanilla.
- Add the egg and milk mixture to the flour mixture and mix well.
- Chill the dough if desired for easier handling.
- Roll out on a pastry cloth and cut out cookies.
- Bake at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes.
- Cool and decorate as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the shortening with butter. You can also add spices like nutmeg or cinnamon to the flour mixture for extra warmth. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour. Chilling the dough helps in easier handling and can enhance the cookie's flavor. Make sure to roll out the dough evenly for uniform baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Old Fashioned Christmas Cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings and pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving them alongside Naomi Currey's Mincemeat Cake for a delightful dessert spread. Decorate the cookies with icing or sprinkles for a festive touch, and place them on a decorative platter for an appealing presentation.
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 on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm in a low oven for a few minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Christmas Cookies contains roughly 75 calories, with 1g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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 make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes, these cookies can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to a week before baking. Alternatively, baked cookies can be stored for several days or frozen for longer periods, making them a great option for holiday preparations.
What can I use instead of shortening?
If you prefer not to use shortening, you can substitute it with an equal amount of unsalted butter or coconut oil. This will add a different flavor and texture to the cookies, making them slightly richer. Just ensure the butter is softened to mix well with the other ingredients.
Can I add mix-ins to the cookie dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to the dough for added texture and flavor. Just be mindful of the overall balance of ingredients; if adding a lot of mix-ins, you might want to slightly reduce the flour to maintain the dough's consistency.
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).