Ruth'S Depression Cookies(Ice Box Cookies)
Ruth's Depression Cookies are nostalgic ice box cookies with warm cinnamon and nutty flavors, perfect for a sweet treat or nostalgic baking experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together the melted butter, white sugar, dark brown sugar, eggs, salt, cinnamon, and the baking soda dissolved in water.
- Pour the mixture into six cups of flour and work with your hands until well combined.
- Add about two cups of coarsely ground nuts, not ground too small.
- Form the dough into long narrow logs on waxed paper.
- Wrap the logs in waxed paper and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using half brown sugar and half white sugar. If you want a nut-free version, substitute the nuts with chocolate chips or dried fruits. Make sure to work the dough until fully combined; this helps in achieving the right texture. Chill the logs for at least an hour before baking for optimal results. These cookies can also be made ahead and frozen for later use.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect for dessert or a sweet snack alongside a cup of coffee or tea. They pair beautifully with Grandma Helen'S Orange Delight Cookies for a delightful cookie platter. Consider serving them at gatherings or as a homemade gift during the holidays. They also make a great addition to dessert buffets.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the baked cookies. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps restore their soft texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ruth'S Depression Cookies(Ice Box Cookies) contains roughly 1130 calories, with 7g protein, 200g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 margarine instead of butter in this recipe?
While you can substitute margarine for butter, it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. Butter provides a richer taste and a better crumb structure. If you opt for margarine, choose one with a high fat content for the best results.
How can I make these cookies more chocolatey?
To enhance the chocolate flavor, you can add cocoa powder to the flour mixture or fold in chocolate chips. A combination of both will yield delicious chocolate-flavored cookies. Just be mindful of the balance so as not to overpower the other flavors.
What type of nuts work best in these cookies?
Pecans and walnuts are excellent choices for these cookies, providing a nice crunch and flavor. Coarsely chop the nuts to ensure they blend well without overwhelming the cookie. Feel free to experiment with different nuts based on your preference.
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).