Amish Sugar Cookies

Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe - Authentic Amish Cuisine

Region / culture: Amish | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 12-14 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Amish Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that has been cherished for generations. These cookies are known for their soft texture, rich flavor, and simple yet irresistible taste. Made with basic ingredients found in most kitchens, they embody the Amish community's tradition of simplicity and excellence in baking. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to creating these beloved cookies, perfect for any occasion or just a cozy night in.

History

The origins of Amish Sugar Cookies can be traced back to the Amish and Mennonite communities in the United States. These communities, known for their simple living and skilled craftsmanship, have a rich tradition of baking. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding its own touch. The simplicity of the recipe, requiring no refrigeration of the dough and using ingredients readily available in a farmstead kitchen, made it popular among these communities. Today, it's enjoyed by people all over the world who appreciate its comforting taste and texture.

Ingredients

0.5 cup sugar
0.33 cup powdered sugar
0.25 cup margarine (0.5 stick)
0.33 cup vegetable oil
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp lemon or almond flavoring
2 tbsp water
2.25 cup all-purpose flour
0.5 tsp baking soda
0.5 tsp cream of tartar
0.5 tsp salt

How to prepare

In a mixer bowl, combine sugars, margarine, and oil. Mix at medium speed until creamy.
Add the egg, vanilla, flavoring, and water. Mix at medium speed for 30 seconds, scraping down the bowl before and after adding these ingredients.
In a separate bowl, stir together the remaining ingredients to blend well. Add this mixture to the creamy mixture and mix at medium speed to blend.
Using 1 tbsp of dough per ball, form the dough into 24 balls.
Place the balls on cookie sheets that have been sprayed with pan spray or lined with aluminum foil.
Using the back of a tablespoon dipped in water, press the balls down evenly to a thickness of 0.5".
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 12 to 14 minutes, or until the cookies are browned on the bottom and lightly browned around the edges.
Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool to room temperature.

Variations

There are several ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste:
Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
Mix in chocolate chips or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
Experiment with different extracts like lemon or mint for a unique taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Amish Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Use room temperature ingredients to ensure they mix evenly.

- Cream the sugars and fats together thoroughly to incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter cookie.

- Do not overmix the dough once the flour is added to avoid tough cookies.

- Use a cookie scoop for evenly sized cookies, which will help them bake uniformly.

- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to prevent them from breaking.

Serving Suggestions

Amish Sugar Cookies are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. They are perfect as a standalone treat with a glass of milk or cup of tea. For a special touch, you can add a simple glaze or frosting on top, or even sandwich two cookies with a filling of your choice.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses the creaming method, where sugars and fats are beaten together until light and fluffy. This technique incorporates air into the mixture, contributing to the cookies' soft texture. It's important to mix the dry ingredients gently to avoid overworking the dough.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier version, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.

- Use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a slight coconut flavor.

- If you don't have powdered sugar, you can use granulated sugar as a substitute, though the texture may be slightly different.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for Amish Sugar Cookies can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, dust the cookies with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple icing. Serving them on a vintage plate or tiered cookie stand can add a charming touch to your table setting.

Pairing Recommendations

Amish Sugar Cookies pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Try them with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a cold glass of milk. For adults, a sweet dessert wine or a light-bodied coffee porter can complement the cookies' flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. There's no need to reheat them, but if you prefer them warm, a few seconds in the microwave will do the trick.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each cookie contains approximately 120 calories. This makes them a suitable option for a sweet treat that can fit into a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Amish Sugar Cookies contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe comes from the all-purpose flour and sugars, providing the body with quick energy.

Fats

These cookies contain about 7 grams of fat per serving, with the fats coming from the margarine and vegetable oil. These ingredients contribute to the cookies' moist texture and rich flavor.

Proteins

Amish Sugar Cookies offer a modest amount of protein, with approximately 2 grams per serving. The protein in this recipe comes mainly from the egg and to a lesser extent from the flour.

Vitamins and minerals

While not a significant source of vitamins and minerals, these cookies do provide small amounts of calcium and iron, primarily from the all-purpose flour and egg.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as wheat (gluten), eggs, and may contain traces of nuts depending on the brand of ingredients used. Individuals with food allergies should take caution.

Summary

Amish Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that, while not particularly nutrient-dense, can fit into a balanced diet. They provide quick energy from carbohydrates, a modest amount of protein, and some fats that contribute to their delicious taste and texture.

Summary

Amish Sugar Cookies are a timeless classic that offers a taste of simplicity and tradition. With their soft texture, rich flavor, and easy preparation, they're sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a simple treat or dressed up for a special occasion, these cookies are a delightful reminder of the comfort and joy that homemade baking can bring.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Amish Sugar Cookies. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her small Amish community. As we sat on her porch sipping tea, Martha suddenly remembered that she had promised to bake some cookies for the church bake sale the next day.

Without skipping a beat, Martha invited me into her cozy kitchen to help her whip up a batch of her famous Amish Sugar Cookies. I watched in awe as she effortlessly measured out the ingredients and mixed them together with a wooden spoon. The smell of vanilla and butter filled the air, and I knew I had to learn how to make these delicious cookies for myself.

As we chatted and baked, Martha shared the story of how she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother many years ago. She explained that the secret to these cookies was in the simplicity of the ingredients and the love put into each batch. I listened intently, absorbing every word as Martha passed down this cherished recipe to me.

After the cookies were baked and cooled, Martha and I sat down to enjoy a few with our tea. The cookies were soft and chewy, with just the right amount of sweetness. I couldn't believe how simple they were to make, yet how incredibly delicious they turned out.

As I left Martha's home that day, I knew that I had to make these Amish Sugar Cookies for my own family. I gathered the ingredients and carefully followed Martha's instructions, taking my time to ensure that each cookie was made with love and care.

When I presented the cookies to my family that evening, they were delighted by the sweet aroma and the soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture of the cookies. My children begged for more, and my husband declared them the best cookies he had ever tasted.

From that day on, Martha's Amish Sugar Cookies became a staple in our household. I baked them for every special occasion and shared the recipe with anyone who asked. I even adapted the recipe slightly, adding a touch of cinnamon for a unique twist that my family adored.

Over the years, I continued to perfect the recipe, honing my baking skills and experimenting with different variations. I added chopped nuts, dried fruits, and even chocolate chips to create new flavors that delighted my loved ones.

As I grew older, I passed down the recipe for Amish Sugar Cookies to my own grandchildren, just as Martha had done for me. I taught them the importance of using quality ingredients and taking the time to bake with love and care. I watched with pride as they baked the cookies for their friends and shared the recipe with others, carrying on the tradition that had been passed down through generations.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, surrounded by the warm aroma of freshly baked cookies, I am filled with gratitude for the simple pleasure of sharing a beloved recipe with those I love. Martha's Amish Sugar Cookies will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the joy of baking and the power of passing down traditions from one generation to the next.