Shannon'S Cookies
Sweet, buttery sugar cookies with vanilla flavor, perfect for decorating and sharing at celebrations or as a delightful treat for friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar with an electric mixer.
- Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
- Add baking powder and flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- The dough will be very stiff; blend in the last 3/4 cup flour by hand.
- Do not chill the dough.
- Divide dough into two balls.
- On a floured surface, roll each ball into a circle 12 inches in diameter and 1/8 inch thick.
- Cut out cookie shapes, dipping cutters in flour before each use.
- Bake cookies on the top rack of the oven for 6 to 7 minutes, until lightly browned.
- Cool completely on wire racks.
- Frost and decorate as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer cookie, consider reducing the baking time slightly or adding an extra egg yolk. If you need a dairy-free option, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative. You can also experiment with different flavors by adding almond extract or citrus zest. If the dough feels too sticky, dust your hands with flour while shaping.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but can also be served with a glass of milk or a cup of tea. For a festive touch, decorate with royal icing or colorful sprinkles. They pair beautifully with Susan'S Golden Apricot Cake for a charming dessert table. Consider offering a variety of shapes to cater to different occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, you can freeze the cookies by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shannon'S Cookies contains roughly 51 calories, with 1g protein, 9g 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 use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute up to half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrients. However, keep in mind that this may alter the texture slightly, making the cookies denser.
What should I do if my dough is too crumbly?
If your dough seems crumbly, try adding a tablespoon of milk or water to help bind it together. Make sure to mix it thoroughly, and if it remains dry, add a bit more liquid until it reaches the desired consistency.
How can I prevent my cookies from spreading too much while baking?
To prevent spreading, ensure your butter is at room temperature but not melted. You can also chill the dough for about 30 minutes before rolling and cutting, which can help maintain the shape during 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).