This updated version of Katherine’s Sugar Cookies uses soft shortening for a tender texture, while still retaining the warmth and richness of the original vintage recipe. Sugar, egg, and vanilla bring a light sweetness, while chopped nuts provide crunch. With a base of sifted flour and a gentle lift from baking soda, these drop cookies bake into beautifully golden domes. Ideal for snacking, gifting, or sharing with tea, this modern take still delivers all the nostalgic comfort of the original.
Ingredients
- ½ cup soft shortening
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1½ cups sifted flour
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 cups chopped nuts
Instructions
Step 1: Mix Base
- Cream together the soft shortening and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just blended.
Step 3: Add Nuts and Drop Dough
- Stir in chopped nuts until evenly distributed.
- Drop rounded spoonfuls onto a greased cookie sheet.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake at 325°F for 12–15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Cool on a wire rack.
Tips
- Substitute walnuts or pecans for different flavor profiles.
- Add ½ teaspoon cinnamon for warm spice depth.
- Mix in ¼ cup chopped dried fruit (raisins, dates) for additional sweetness.
- Replace part of the sugar with brown sugar for a softer, chewier texture.
- Chill the dough for 20 minutes for a slightly thicker cookie.
- Add mini chocolate chips for a hybrid nut, chocolate cookie.
- Drizzle with a simple vanilla glaze once cooled.
- Toast the nuts before mixing for richer flavor.
- Add 1 tablespoon peach butter or applesauce if wanting a softer cookie, matching the handwritten note’s reference.
Nutrition
Calories: 95kcalCarbohydrates: 9gProtein: 1.5gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 12mgSodium: 60mgPotassium: 45mgFiber: 0.8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 20IUCalcium: 6mgIron: 0.4mg
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