Plain Sugar Cookies
Classic sugar cookies with a buttery, sweet flavor and tender texture, perfect for any occasion. Their simple ingredients and straightforward method make them ideal for bakers of all levels. Enjoy these nostalgic treats on holidays, parties, or as everyday indulgence with a glass of milk or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift flour, salt, cream of tartar, and baking soda together and set aside.
- Mix confectioners sugar and melted oleo until well combined.
- Beat until smooth.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition, then add vanilla.
- Gradually add the flour mixture, beating until smooth after each addition until all flour is incorporated.
- Roll dough into small balls and drop from teaspoon onto a greased cookie sheet.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 12 minutes, or until lightly golden.
- Remove from oven and cool before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a kitchen scale to measure flour for accuracy. If you prefer a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the oleo with cream cheese. Make sure to chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling for easier handling. If you want a touch of spice, add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these plain sugar cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a delightful treat. They can also be decorated with icing or sprinkles for special occasions. For a fun dessert pairing, consider serving them alongside the Ultimate Oatmeal Cookie for a delightful cookie platter.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover 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-safe bag. To reheat, place cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Plain Sugar Cookies contains roughly 628 calories, with 10g protein, 116g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (24% of the Daily Value) and calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1391mg per serving (60% 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 all-purpose flour instead of plain flour?
Yes, all-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for plain flour in this recipe. The texture may vary slightly, but the cookies will still turn out delicious. Just ensure to measure it properly to maintain the right dough consistency.
What can I use instead of oleo?
If you don't have oleo (butter) on hand, you can substitute it with margarine or coconut oil. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based butter alternative, which will give similar results without the dairy.
How can I make these cookies more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, to the dough. You might also incorporate chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and taste. Experimenting with different extracts like almond or peppermint can also elevate the flavor profile.
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).