Old Sugar Cookies

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 24 Cuisine: American

Old Sugar Cookies are buttery, sweet treats with rich vanilla flavor, perfect for holidays or everyday snacking, appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup butter
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 4 cups flour
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Cream butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, vanilla, and eggs together until smooth.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
  3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until well combined.
  4. Chill the dough if necessary, then roll out on a floured surface to desired thickness.
  5. Cut into shapes and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
  7. Allow cookies to cool before decorating or serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider substituting half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. You can also use half all-purpose flour and half whole wheat flour for a healthier option. If you prefer a more intense flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract in addition to the vanilla. Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent spreading while baking.

Serving Suggestions

These Old Sugar Cookies are delightful on their own, but you can elevate them by pairing with a glass of cold milk or a cup of tea. They also make a great base for a cookie decorating party, especially around the holidays. For a fun twist, serve with a side of homemade frosting or dip them in melted chocolate for added indulgence.

Storage & Reheating

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for a few hours or warm in the oven for a few minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Old Sugar Cookies contains roughly 495 calories, with 1g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 41g fat.

495 kcal 25% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.3g 3% DV
Total Fat 40.8g 52% DV
Carbs 25.2g 9% DV
Fiber 0.6g 2% DV
Sugar 11.1g 22% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 128.9mg 6% DV
Potassium 132.6mg 3% DV
Cholesterol 145.9mg 49% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 8mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 3.7mg 4% DV
Calcium 27.1mg 2% DV
Iron 0.5mg 3% DV
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 sugar substitute in this recipe?

Yes, you can use sugar substitutes like Stevia or erythritol, but be sure to check the conversion ratios, as they can differ from granulated sugar. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly, so it might take some experimentation to get it just right.

What can I do if my dough is too sticky?

If your dough is too sticky to handle, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Chilling the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes can also help firm it up and make it easier to roll out.

How can I make these cookies more festive?

To make these cookies more festive, consider adding colorful sprinkles or using cookie cutters to create fun shapes. You can also frost them with royal icing or a simple powdered sugar glaze. Additionally, experimenting with flavors like peppermint or citrus zest can add a seasonal touch.

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).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →