Very Good Rolled Sugar Cookies
These classic rolled sugar cookies are buttery, sweet, and flavorful with hints of vanilla and citrus zest, perfect for decorating or enjoying plain with tea or coffee.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350° to 375° F.
- Cream shortening and sugar; add eggs and vanilla, mixing well.
- Mix in dry ingredients including flour, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
- Chill the dough for 45 minutes.
- Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface and cut into shapes.
- Place cookies on a prepared baking sheet with cooking spray.
- Bake for 10 minutes at 350° to 375° F.
- Remove cookies from oven and transfer to a rack to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure your shortening is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar. If you don't have milk, you can substitute with buttermilk for a richer flavor. Adding grated nutmeg or citrus peel will enhance the cookie's aroma. Chilling the dough is crucial for easy rolling and to prevent spreading during baking. Keep an eye on baking time, as ovens can vary.
Serving Suggestions
These sugar cookies are perfect for decorating with icing or sprinkles for special occasions. They pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. Consider serving them alongside Mary'S Baked Macaroni for a delightful family gathering. You can also sandwich them with your favorite frosting for a fun treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you want to keep them longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To thaw, simply let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Very Good Rolled Sugar Cookies contains roughly 232 calories, with 3g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of calcium (10% 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 a different type of fat instead of shortening?
Yes, you can substitute unsalted butter for shortening, which will give the cookies a richer flavor. Keep in mind that using butter may alter the texture slightly, making them a bit more tender.
How can I make these cookies more festive?
To make these cookies more festive, consider adding food coloring to the dough and rolling it out in holiday shapes. You can also use royal icing or colored sprinkles to decorate them, making them perfect for celebrations.
What should I do if the dough is too sticky?
If the dough is too sticky, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. Make sure to chill the dough again if it becomes too soft after adding flour.
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).