Iced Sugar Cookies

Iced Sugar Cookies Recipe - Classic American Treat

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Iced sugar cookies are a classic treat that are perfect for any occasion. These cookies are soft, sweet, and topped with a delicious icing that adds an extra layer of flavor. Whether you are baking them for a holiday party or just as a sweet treat for yourself, these cookies are sure to be a hit.

History

Sugar cookies have been a popular treat for centuries, with recipes dating back to the 1700s. The addition of icing to sugar cookies is said to have originated in the United States in the 19th century. Iced sugar cookies have since become a staple in bakeries and homes around the world.

Ingredients

2 cups sugar
3 eggs
0.5 cup softened butter
0.5 cup crisco
0.75 cup milk
2 tsp vanilla
1 tsp baking powder
4 cups flour
pinch of salt

Icing

0.5 stick melted butter
2 tsp vanilla
2 tbsp milk
powdered sugar

How to prepare

In a bowl, mix together sugar and eggs.
Add butter and Crisco to the mixture.
Beat the mixture until well combined.
Stir in milk and vanilla.
Add baking powder, salt, and flour to the mixture.
Drop the dough by rounded teaspoonfuls onto greased and floured cookie sheets.
Bake the cookies at 375°F (191°C) for about 10 minutes.
While the cookies are still warm, ice them.

Icing

In a bowl, mix together melted butter, milk, and vanilla.
Gradually add enough powdered sugar to make a creamy consistency.
Beat the mixture until smooth.

Variations

Add sprinkles or colored sugar to the icing for a festive touch.
Use different flavored extracts, such as almond or lemon, to change up the flavor of the cookies.
Add lemon or orange zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure your butter and Crisco are softened before mixing them with the sugar and eggs.

- Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies.

- For a softer cookie, slightly underbake them and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

- To prevent the icing from running off the cookies, allow them to cool completely before icing.

Serving Suggestions

Iced sugar cookies are perfect on their own, but can also be served with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a delicious treat.

Cooking Techniques

Creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy will result in a softer cookie.

- Rolling the dough out and using cookie cutters will result in uniform shapes and sizes.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use all butter instead of a combination of butter and Crisco for a richer flavor.

- If you don't have Crisco, you can use all butter instead.

- You can use almond or coconut milk as a dairy-free alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make the cookie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. You can also freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cookies on a platter and sprinkle with colored sugar or edible glitter for a festive presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Iced sugar cookies pair well with a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, place the cookies in a 350°F (177°C) oven for a few minutes until warm.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of iced sugar cookies contains approximately 180 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of iced sugar cookies contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of iced sugar cookies contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of iced sugar cookies contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Iced sugar cookies do not contain significant amounts of vitamins or minerals.

Alergens

Iced sugar cookies contain dairy (butter, milk) and eggs.

Summary

Iced sugar cookies are a sweet treat that are relatively low in protein and high in carbohydrates and fats. They are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Iced sugar cookies are a classic treat that are perfect for any occasion. With a soft, sweet cookie base and a delicious icing on top, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy them with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a delightful treat.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl helping my own grandmother in the kitchen. She was a talented baker, always whipping up delicious treats for our family to enjoy. One day, as we were preparing for a family gathering, she pulled out a worn and tattered recipe card from her collection. It was for iced sugar cookies, a special treat that she had learned to make from her own mother.

As she read through the ingredients and instructions, I watched in awe as she effortlessly mixed and rolled out the dough, cutting out shapes with cookie cutters and carefully decorating each one with colorful icing. The cookies baked to a perfect golden brown, filling the kitchen with a warm and inviting aroma. When they were finally cooled and ready to be enjoyed, I took my first bite and was instantly hooked. The sweet and buttery cookie, combined with the smooth and creamy icing, was a taste sensation like no other.

From that moment on, I knew I had to learn how to make these cookies myself. My grandmother was more than happy to teach me, guiding me through each step with patience and encouragement. She shared with me the secrets of making the perfect dough, the importance of using quality ingredients, and the art of decorating with precision and creativity. I soaked up every bit of knowledge like a sponge, eager to master this beloved recipe.

As I grew older, I continued to make these iced sugar cookies for every special occasion. Birthdays, holidays, and family gatherings were all opportunities for me to showcase my baking skills and share my grandmother's recipe with those I loved. Each batch I made was a labor of love, a tribute to the traditions and memories that had been passed down through generations.

Over the years, I have made a few tweaks and additions to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it uniquely mine. I discovered that adding a touch of lemon zest to the dough gave it a subtle citrus flavor that complimented the sweetness of the icing. I also experimented with different colors and designs for the icing, creating intricate patterns and decorations that delighted the eyes as well as the taste buds.

As my own children grew up, they too became enamored with these iced sugar cookies. They would eagerly help me in the kitchen, rolling out the dough, cutting out shapes, and decorating with care and enthusiasm. It was a joy to pass on this family recipe to the next generation, knowing that it would continue to be a source of comfort and joy for years to come.

Now, as I sit in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of baking, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of this recipe. It has brought me closer to my grandmother, connected me to my past, and allowed me to create lasting memories with my own family. Each time I bake a batch of these iced sugar cookies, I am reminded of the love, laughter, and traditions that have shaped me into the person I am today.

And so, I will continue to bake these cookies, sharing them with friends and family, and passing on the recipe to anyone who asks. For in each bite of these sweet and delicious treats, there is a taste of history, a touch of nostalgia, and a whole lot of love. And that, my dear, is the true magic of a recipe passed down through generations.