Vintage Amish Sugar Cookies

Timeless Delight: Vintage Amish Sugar Cookies

Step back in time and savor the nostalgia with Vintage Amish Sugar Cookies, a classic recipe that has stood the test of time. These soft, tender cookies with their delicate sweetness are a testament to the simplicity and heartwarming charm of traditional Amish baking. Join us on a culinary journey as we explore the history of these timeless treats, delve into the carefully selected ingredients, provide detailed step-by-step instructions, share invaluable cook notes, present delightful variations, and offer keto and low-carb adaptations. Let’s embark on a voyage to capture the essence of vintage baking with Amish Sugar Cookies.

Ingredients

For the Sugar Cookies:

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Sugar Coating:

  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare:

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

2. Cream Butter and Sugars:

  • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla:

  • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients:

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.

5. Gradual Mixing:

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

6. Shape Cookies:

  • Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets.

7. Sugar Coating:

  • Dip the bottom of a glass into granulated sugar and use it to gently flatten each cookie.

8. Bake to Perfection:

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Cook Notes

Butter Temperature Matters:

  • Ensure the butter is softened but not melted for the right cookie texture.

Don’t Skip Cream of Tartar:

  • Cream of tartar contributes to the cookies’ softness and helps activate the baking soda.

Avoid Overmixing:

  • Overmixing can lead to dense cookies. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.

Patience is a Virtue:

  • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to maintain their structure.

Variations

1. Lemon Zest Infusion:

  • Add the zest of one lemon to the dough for a citrusy twist.

2. Cinnamon Sugar Sensation:

  • Combine 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon with the granulated sugar for the coating.

3. Nutty Crunch:

  • Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added texture.

4. Chocolate Chip Delight:

  • Mix in a cup of chocolate chips for a delightful chocolatey variation.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

Keto Amish Sugar Cookies:

Flour Substitute:

  • Replace all-purpose flour with almond flour for a keto-friendly alternative.

Sweetener Swap:

  • Use keto-friendly sweeteners like erythritol or stevia in place of granulated and powdered sugar.

Low-Carb Coating:

  • Opt for a low-carb sweetener like erythritol for the sugar coating.

Low-Carb Amish Sugar Cookies:

Flour Modification:

  • Use a combination of almond flour and coconut flour to reduce the carb content.

Low-Carb Sweetener:

  • Choose a low-carb sweetener such as monk fruit or stevia for a sugar-free option.

Minimalist Coating:

  • Skip the sugar coating or use a low-carb alternative for a simpler finish.

In conclusion, Vintage Amish Sugar Cookies stand as a testament to the enduring appeal of time-honored recipes. As you savor the soft, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of these cookies, you’re not just indulging in a sweet treat; you’re experiencing a piece of history.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe, explore delightful variations, or opt for keto and low-carb versions, these cookies have a place in every baker’s heart. Share them with loved ones, gift them to friends, or savor them with a cup of tea – Vintage Amish Sugar Cookies are more than just a cookie; they are a connection to the past, a celebration of simplicity, and a timeless delight.

So, preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of nostalgia fill your kitchen. Here’s to the joy of baking, the pleasure of savoring, and the enduring legacy of Vintage Amish Sugar Cookies in your culinary repertoire!