COOKIES, Ethel's Sugar Cookies (Double Recipe)
This is a double recipe. I like to freeze the cookies; then thaw & frost as many as I want. Try using freshly squeezed lemon juice in the dough along with the vanilla, and in the icing.
This is a double recipe. I like to freeze the cookies; then thaw & frost as many as I want. Try using freshly squeezed lemon juice in the dough along with the vanilla, and in the icing.
- Carbohydrate 761.473529984257 g
- Cholesterol 2121.97112085962 mg
- Fat 284.044487803642 g
- Fiber 0.0353333333333333 g
- Protein 57.1905783242087 g
- Saturated Fat 142.239020033085 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (1881g)
- Sodium 113335.616988394 mg
- Sugar 761.438196650924 g
- Trans Fat 21.0212662345815 g
- Calories 5715 calories
Step-by-step
- MIX shortening, sugar, eggs & vanilla thoroughly. Measure flour by dipping method or by sifting.
- STIR flour, baking powder & salt together; blend in. CHILL at least 1 hr.
- Heat oven to 400*.
- Roll dough 1/8" thick on lightly floured board. Cut w/ 3" cooky cutter. Place on ungreased baking sheet.
- Bake 6-8 mins. or til cookies are a delicate golden color.
Fat Composition and Creaming Mechanics
Butter and shortening combine to dictate the structural integrity and spread rate of these biscuits. Because shortening contains zero water, blending it thoroughly with the softened butter and granulated sugar creates a dense matrix that traps air without destabilizing when exposed to oven heat. Creaming this dual-fat mixture until it looks pale and fluffy ensures that the baking powder distributes evenly, preventing dense pockets in the final crumb.
Dough Hydration and Rolling Precision
Flour density dictates the final texture, making the spoon-and-level measurement method or proper sifting mandatory before combining dry ingredients with the salt and leavener. Chilling the dough for a minimum of 60 minutes solidifies the fats, which prevents the cut shapes from distorting on the baking sheet and allows the gluten network to relax. Rolling the chilled mass precisely to one-eighth of an inch guarantees uniform baking times across every batch.
Thermal Control and Visual Cues
Setting the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit requires careful monitoring because thin sugar dough browns rapidly at high temperatures. Baking proceeds quickly, taking between six and eight minutes depending on exact hot spots within the oven cavity. Pull the trays from the heat immediately when the edges show a delicate golden hue while the centers remain pale and set.
