Soft Dropped Sugar Cookies

Prep: 10 min Cook: 12 min Cuisine: American

Light brown sugar and margarine make these soft, buttery cookies with a subtle vanilla hint—ideal for quick dessert or snack, perfect for families and casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups light brown sugar, packed
  • 3 sticks margarine
  • 4 eggs
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 7 cups flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 4 teaspoons baking soda

Instructions

  1. Cream sugar and margarine in a large bowl.
  2. Add eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla; mix well.
  3. Blend in flour, baking soda, and baking powder.
  4. Drop teaspoonfuls onto a cookie sheet.
  5. Sprinkle sugar over the dough before baking.
  6. Bake at 375°F for 10 to 12 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using half butter and half margarine. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute it by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. Make sure not to overmix the dough after adding the flour to keep the cookies soft. Sprinkling sugar on top adds a delightful crunch.

Serving Suggestions

These Soft Dropped Sugar Cookies are perfect for any gathering or as a sweet treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee. They pair beautifully with Cottage Fruit Salad for a refreshing dessert platter. Consider serving them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat or pack them in lunch boxes for a delightful surprise.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them soft, you can add a slice of bread to the container. If you want to enjoy them warm, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in an oven preheated to 350°F for a few minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Soft Dropped Sugar Cookies contains roughly 804 calories, with 14g protein, 120g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (58% of the Daily Value), protein (29% of the Daily Value), and potassium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2272mg per serving (99% of the Daily Value).

804 kcal 40% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 14.4g 29% DV
Total Fat 17.7g 23% DV
Carbs 120.1g 44% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 17.5g 35% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2272.4mg 99% DV
Potassium 972.8mg 21% DV
Cholesterol 329.4mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 160.2mcg 18% DV
Vitamin C 0.5mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 2.3mcg 12% DV
Calcium 753.1mg 58% DV
Iron 3.1mg 17% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains 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 freeze these cookies?

Yes, these cookies freeze well. To freeze, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.

What can I use instead of margarine?

If you prefer, you can use unsalted butter instead of margarine for a richer flavor. Alternatively, for a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute can work well. Just ensure the consistency is similar to margarine for best results.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden and the tops appear set but still soft. They will continue to firm up slightly after removing them from the oven, so avoid overbaking for that soft texture.

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).

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