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–+ servings
Typed recipe for soft sugar cookies
This nostalgic Soft Sugar Cookie recipe is a cherished family favorite, passed down through generations. Originating from a vintage recipe box, it combines simple ingredients to create a tender, cake-like cookie with a subtle tang from buttermilk. The addition of cream of tartar ensures a soft texture, reminiscent of classic bakery-style treats.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course Baked Goods, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 36 cookies
Calories 155 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups sugar
  • 1 cup shortening
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1½ tsp soda
  • ½ tsp cream of tartar
  • 4½ cups flour
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven

  • Preheat your oven to 370°F (188°C).

Cream the Wet Ingredients

  • Cream together 2 cups of sugar and 1 cup of shortening until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs, Buttermilk, and Vanilla

  • Add 3 eggs, 1 cup of buttermilk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the mixture; beat well.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, combine 4½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1½ teaspoons of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of cream of tartar.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

  • Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until a soft dough forms.

Shape the Cookies

  • Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a greased cookie sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Add Sugar Coating

  • Sprinkle the tops with additional sugar for a sweet crust.

Bake the Cookies

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool the Cookies

  • Cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips

  • Flavor Enhancements: Add a teaspoon of lemon or almond extract for a different flavor profile.
  • Frosting: Top with your favorite icing and sprinkles for festive occasions.
  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cookies for up to 3 months; thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cookieCalories: 155kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 1gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 14mgSodium: 13mgPotassium: 24mgFiber: 0.3gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 31IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 32mgIron: 1mg
Keyword Baking, cookies
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