Amish Sugar Cookies

My Secret to Award-Winning Amish Sugar Cookies

As a busy mom, I'm always looking for recipes that are both delicious and easy to make. These Amish Sugar Cookies fit the bill perfectly. They're incredibly simple, requiring minimal ingredients and steps, yet the result is a melt-in-your-mouth cookie that's sure to impress. I've been making these for years, sharing them with friends and family, and even my sister won a blue ribbon at the county fair with them! The secret? It's not some fancy technique or obscure ingredient; it's all about the perfect balance of simple ingredients and a touch of love.

The best part about this recipe is its versatility. I've experimented with adding different extracts, like almond or peppermint, to change the flavor profile. Sometimes, I'll add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor. Feel free to get creative and make them your own! The recipe is also very forgiving; if you accidentally add a little too much flour, it won't drastically alter the texture. One year I forgot to add the baking soda, which obviously changed the result drastically. In the end, I still used them, but I had to add something else to make the cookies more delicious. So, always be careful to follow the recipe's instructions. They are easy, but still have some importance.

I often bake a big batch of these cookies for holidays or get-togethers. They're perfect for sharing and always disappear quickly. The soft texture and delicate sweetness make them a crowd-pleaser for all ages. The cookies also freeze beautifully, so I often make a large batch and freeze half for later. They retain their flavor and texture, perfect for unexpected guests or a quick dessert craving. Making these cookies isn’t just about baking; it's about creating happy memories. My children love helping me in the kitchen, measuring ingredients and carefully placing the dough onto the baking sheet. Watching the cookies bake and the kitchen fill with the delightful aroma is always a fun family activity.

Beyond the simple steps and delicious taste, these Amish Sugar Cookies hold a special place in my heart. They're a reminder of simpler times, of sharing treats with loved ones, and of the joy that can come from a seemingly simple recipe. It’s a recipe that has brought smiles to many faces and created many joyful memories. This recipe is a gift I give to friends and family. I hope you will enjoy these sweet treasures as much as I do and that this recipe will bring joy to your heart, just like it has brought to mine.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup confectioners' sugar (for dusting)

Tips for Success:

• Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for best results.
• Don't overmix the dough. Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
• Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
• Bake the cookies until the edges are lightly golden brown.
• Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack before dusting with confectioners' sugar.

These Amish Sugar Cookies are more than just a recipe; they're a tradition. They're a reminder that the simplest things in life often bring the most joy. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and get ready to bake a batch of these delicious cookies. Your family and friends will thank you for it!

Step-by-step

• In a large bowl, beat the butter, oil and sugars.
• Beat in eggs until well blended.
• Beat in vanilla.
• Combine the flour, baking soda and cream of tartar; gradually add to creamed mixture.
• Drop by small teaspoonfuls onto ungreased baking sheets.
• Bake at 375 degrees until lightly browned, 8-10 minutes.
• Remove to wire racks to cool.