Sugar Gems
Sugar Gems are delightful cookies featuring a crisp exterior and tender interior, infused with vanilla and a hint of salt. Coated in sugar and pressed with a glass, they are perfect for sharing at parties or enjoying with a cup of tea. Their sweet, buttery flavor appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream confectioners sugar, granulated sugar, butter, and salad oil until fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla.
- Sift dry ingredients (flour, salt, baking soda, cream of tartar) together and blend in well.
- Drop cookies on a baking sheet.
- Dip a glass in sugar and press on each cookie, or roll cookies in sugar and press with a glass.
- Bake at 350°F until lightly brown, about 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the perfect texture, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. You can substitute vegetable oil for salad oil if needed. For a hint of flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon zest. If you're looking for a twist, try incorporating mini chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter. These cookies are great for parties or as a sweet treat alongside Raspberry Ripple Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Sugar Gems are delightful on their own but can be served with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a comforting snack. For a fun presentation, arrange them on a platter with fresh fruit or alongside Baked Apple French Toast for a delightful brunch spread. They also make a perfect treat to accompany coffee during afternoon gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Sugar Gems in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh, you can also freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. To enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to regain their softness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sugar Gems contains roughly 3076 calories, with 6g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 292g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2060mg per serving (90% 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 whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but it may alter the texture slightly. Start with 3 cups of whole wheat flour and 1.5 cups of all-purpose flour to maintain a softer cookie. This blend keeps the cookies delightful while adding a bit of nutrition.
How can I make these cookies less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness of Sugar Gems, you can cut back on the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup and add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for flavor. Alternatively, consider using unsweetened cocoa powder to create a chocolate version, balancing out the sweetness with a rich taste.
What can I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to handle, you can chill it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will firm it up and make it easier to drop onto the baking sheet. Additionally, dusting your hands or the cookie scoop with a little flour can help manage stickiness while shaping the cookies.
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).