Old Fashioned Sand Tarts
Old Fashioned Sand Tarts are buttery, sweet cookies with a hint of cinnamon and nuts, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a nostalgic treat with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the butter, light brown sugar, egg, and flour together and refrigerate the dough.
- Roll the chilled dough into walnut-sized balls.
- Press down each ball with the end of a small glass or a cookie press disc dipped in sugar.
- Sprinkle cinnamon and sugar on top and add chopped nuts if desired.
- Bake in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes until golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using brown butter instead of regular butter. You can substitute half of the butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. If you want a different texture, try adding a bit of cornstarch to the flour. Be sure to chill the dough long enough so it holds shape when baking. These cookies pair beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful sand tarts as a sweet treat during the holidays or at casual gatherings. They pair wonderfully with desserts like Sara's Praline Sweet Potatoes or alongside a rich scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra flavor dimension. These cookies are perfect for gift-giving, beautifully packaged in a festive tin.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover sand tarts in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Sand Tarts contains roughly 254 calories, with 3g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 4g 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 use a different type of sugar for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute light brown sugar with white sugar or dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor. However, using granulated sugar will yield a slightly different texture and sweetness level, so keep that in mind when making adjustments.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough feels too sticky to handle, you can add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a manageable consistency. Alternatively, chilling the dough for a longer period can help firm it up, making it easier to roll into balls.
Can I add other ingredients to the sand tarts?
Absolutely! You can customize your sand tarts by adding chocolate chips, dried fruits, or spices like nutmeg. Chopped nuts can also be integrated into the dough for added crunch, or you can sprinkle them on top before baking.
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).