COOKIES, Ethel's Sugar Cookies (Double Recipe)

My Secret to Perfectly Crispy Sugar Cookies (and Why I Love Freezing Them!)

Hi everyone! As a busy working mom, time is my most precious commodity. That's why I've perfected this recipe for Ethel's Double Sugar Cookies – a recipe that's not only delicious but also incredibly efficient for my lifestyle. This isn't just any sugar cookie recipe; it's a double batch, meaning twice the cookies and twice the happiness! My secret? Freezing! I bake a huge batch, freeze them, and then thaw and frost individual cookies as needed. This eliminates the stress of baking fresh cookies every time I crave a sweet treat. It also allows me to experiment with different frosting flavors without wasting a large amount of baked goods.

The recipe itself comes from a beloved old cookbook, "Betty Crocker's Cooky Book," a treasured family heirloom passed down through generations. It's a classic for a reason. The cookies are perfectly crisp on the outside with a soft, slightly chewy interior. But I've added my own personal touch – a hint of freshly squeezed lemon juice in both the dough and the icing. This bright citrus note cuts through the sweetness beautifully, adding a refreshing element that elevates the classic sugar cookie to something truly special. The almond extract adds another layer of complex flavor, providing a sophisticated balance to the sweetness. It's a subtle yet impactful addition that makes these cookies extraordinary.

Beyond the taste, the convenience of this recipe is what truly sets it apart. Imagine having a stash of perfectly baked cookies waiting in your freezer, ready to be frosted and enjoyed at a moment's notice. Perfect for unexpected guests, after-school snacks, or a well-deserved treat after a long day. Whether it's a simple sprinkle of powdered sugar or a more elaborate buttercream frosting, these cookies are the perfect blank canvas for your culinary creativity. The possibilities are endless!

The Beauty of Freezing: Freezing the cookies allows for amazing flexibility. I often bake a big batch on the weekend and pull out a few to frost and decorate depending on the occasion. A simple dusting of powdered sugar for a weekday afternoon treat or elaborate frosting and decorations for special events. This batch easily makes enough cookies for a small get-together or a delicious cookie jar indulgence for the week ahead.

Tips and Tricks:

• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients always makes a difference. The brighter the lemon juice, the brighter the flavor will be.
• Chilling is Key: Don't skip the chilling step! It helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking, resulting in those perfectly sized, beautiful rounds.
• Baking Time: Oven temperatures can vary, so keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake. They're ready when the edges are lightly golden.
• Cooling Rack: Let your cookies cool completely on a wire rack before frosting. This prevents the frosting from melting and creates a crisper cookie.
• Frosting Fun: Get creative with your frosting! Use different extracts, colors, and toppings. The possibilities are endless!

These cookies are more than just a recipe; they are a testament to the simplicity and joy of baking. They're a reminder that even amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, there's always time for a little sweetness and a whole lot of deliciousness. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and let me know what you think! I'm confident that these cookies will become a new family favorite. They are a perfect blend of classic flavor and modern convenience, a perfect cookie recipe for the busy woman of today. Happy baking!

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" cookie cutter.
• Place on ungreased baking sheet.
• Bake 6-8 mins. or til cookies are a delicate golden color.