Go Back
–+ servings
Sugar Cookies
These classic sugar cookies are a nostalgic favorite, known for their delicate crispness and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Likely from a mid-century kitchen, this recipe represents the timeless tradition of homemade cookies that are simple yet irresistible. Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or an everyday sweet treat, this version is especially beloved for its lightly sugared tops and quick bake time. The handwritten nature of the card adds a cozy, personal touch that brings warmth to any kitchen.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 24 cookies
Calories 113 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup butter ( or margarine)
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 2 ½ cups flour
  • ⅛ tsp salt
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp cream of tartar

Instructions
 

Step 1: Mix Wet Ingredients

  • Cream the butter or margarine with powdered sugar.
  • Add the egg and vanilla, and mix until smooth.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar.

Step 3: Make Dough

  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 4: Shape Cookies

  • Form small balls and place on an ungreased cookie sheet.
  • Flatten each ball using a glass dipped in sugar.

Step 5: Bake

  • Bake at 400°F (205°C) for 5–6 minutes or until lightly golden on the edges.

Tips

  • Roll balls in granulated sugar before flattening for extra sparkle and crunch.
  • Add ½ teaspoon almond extract for a delicate flavor twist.
  • Chill dough 20 minutes for thicker, puffier cookies.
  • Frost with buttercream after cooling for a festive touch.
  • Replace ¼ cup of flour with cocoa powder for chocolate sugar cookies.
  • Add colored sugar before baking for holiday versions.
  • Use a patterned glass bottom for decorative imprints.
  • Swap margarine for butter for richer flavor (the card mentions differences in texture).
  • Sprinkle cinnamon sugar on top for a snickerdoodle-like variation.

Nutrition

Calories: 113kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 1gFat: 0.5gSaturated Fat: 0.2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.1gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 7mgSodium: 123mgPotassium: 31mgFiber: 0.4gSugar: 12gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 41mgIron: 1mg
Keyword classic cookies, comfort food, easy baking, heirloom recipes, holiday baking, simple desserts, vintage baking
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!