Soft Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies
Soft Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies are tender, lightly sweet treats with vanilla flavor, perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying with a glass of milk.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream sugar and oleo until smooth and well blended.
- Add eggs and mix thoroughly.
- Stir in buttermilk and mix well.
- Add vanilla extract and mix.
- Sift together flour, salt, and soda, then gradually add to batter and mix until combined.
- Drop heaping tablespoons of batter onto greased cookie sheets, about 6 to 8 per sheet.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until lightly golden.
- While hot, sprinkle cookies with granulated sugar or frost as desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a softer texture, ensure not to overmix the dough once the flour is added. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or almond extract for a unique flavor twist. This dough also works well for cutout cookies if chilled before rolling.
Serving Suggestions
These sugar cookies are delightful on their own but can be paired with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for an afternoon treat. For a festive touch, consider frosting them with a simple vanilla icing. They also make a great base for ice cream sandwiches, perfect for summer gatherings. Try serving them alongside a slice of Kathy's Corn Bread for a comforting dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them soft, place a slice of bread in the container; it helps maintain moisture. If you want to freeze them, wrap individual cookies in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be thawed at room temperature when needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soft Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies contains roughly 163 calories, with 3g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 3g 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 margarine instead of oleo in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for oleo in equal amounts. Just ensure it is soft enough to cream with the sugar. The texture of the cookies may vary slightly, but they will still turn out delicious.
What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively, try chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps solidify the fat, leading to thicker cookies. Also, ensure your baking soda is fresh, as old leavening agents can affect the cookie's structure.
How can I make these cookies more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor of your sugar cookies, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the dough. For a fun twist, try incorporating chocolate chips or chopped nuts. These additions can elevate the classic cookie taste.
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).