Ma Ma’s Sugar Cookies

Ma Ma’s Sugar Cookies: A Timeless Treat for Every Occasion

Ma Ma’s Sugar Cookies hold a special place in the hearts of many, evoking memories of childhood and family gatherings. These classic cookies are soft, buttery, and delicately sweet, making them a beloved treat for all ages. Whether enjoyed with a glass of milk on a lazy afternoon or decorated for festive occasions, Ma Ma’s Sugar Cookies are sure to bring joy to any moment. Join us as we delve into the recipe and unlock the secrets to making these timeless treats in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

  • Refrigerated:
    • 2 Eggs
  • Baking & Spices:
    • 1/2 cup Butter flavored shortening
    • 2 cups Self-rising flour
    • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
    • 1 cup White sugar

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Cream Shortening and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter flavored shortening and white sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, until well combined.
  4. Incorporate Flour: Gradually add the self-rising flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
  5. Shape Cookies: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
  6. Flatten Cookies: Use the bottom of a glass or the palm of your hand to gently flatten each cookie dough ball into a round disc.
  7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
  8. Cool and Enjoy: Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, serve and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Cookie Add-Ins: Customize Ma Ma’s Sugar Cookies by adding chocolate chips, sprinkles, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to the dough for extra flavor and texture.
  • Decorating: Get creative with decorating by frosting the cooled cookies with icing and topping them with colorful sprinkles or edible glitter.

Keto and Low Carb Versions:

  • Keto Version: Substitute the white sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or monk fruit sweetener. Use almond flour instead of self-rising flour to reduce the carb content. Replace the butter flavored shortening with unsalted butter for a richer flavor.
  • Low Carb Version: Reduce the amount of sugar used or use a sugar substitute such as stevia or sucralose. Opt for coconut flour or a blend of almond and coconut flour for a lower carb alternative to self-rising flour.

Ma Ma’s Sugar Cookies are more than just a sweet treat – they’re a cherished tradition that brings families together and creates lasting memories. With their simple ingredients and irresistible flavor, these cookies have stood the test of time, delighting generations with their soft texture and buttery taste. Whether enjoyed as an afternoon snack or served at special celebrations, Ma Ma’s Sugar Cookies are sure to bring joy to every occasion. So gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let the aroma of freshly baked cookies fill your home with warmth and happiness.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I use regular shortening instead of butter flavored? A: Yes, you can use regular shortening in place of butter flavored shortening. However, keep in mind that the butter flavored variety adds a richer flavor to the cookies.

Q: Can I chill the cookie dough before baking? A: Chilling the cookie dough can help prevent spreading and result in thicker cookies. If desired, you can chill the dough for 30 minutes to 1 hour before shaping and baking.

Q: How should I store the cookies? A: Store Ma Ma’s Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to three months. Allow frozen cookies to thaw at room temperature before serving.

Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free? A: Yes, you can make gluten-free versions of Ma Ma’s Sugar Cookies by using a gluten-free flour blend in place of self-rising flour. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Q: Can I substitute the vanilla extract with other flavorings? A: Yes, you can experiment with different flavorings such as almond extract, lemon extract, or maple extract to customize the flavor of the cookies.

Indulge in Sweet Memories! Now that you have the recipe for Ma Ma’s Sugar Cookies and all the answers to your questions, it’s time to indulge in the sweet memories and flavors of these timeless treats. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or shared with loved ones, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and happiness to every bite. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create delicious moments that will last a lifetime with Ma Ma’s Sugar Cookies!