Welcome to the delightful world of classic Amish sugar cookies! These little gems are soft, chewy, and have just the right amount of sweetness that makes them utterly irresistible. I remember the first time I baked these cookies with my grandmother in her cozy kitchen; the sweet aroma filled the air, and we couldn’t wait to sneak a taste right off the baking sheet! It’s a tradition that has been passed down through generations in my family, and I still cherish those moments. Trust me, once you take your first bite of these classic Amish sugar cookies, you’ll understand why they hold such a special place in my heart. With their light vanilla flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they’re perfect for any occasion or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea. Let’s get baking!
Ingredients for Classic Amish Sugar Cookies
Gather these simple ingredients to whip up a batch of classic Amish sugar cookies that are sure to impress:
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – make sure it’s sifted for lightness!
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – this helps the cookies rise perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder – another leavening agent for that soft texture.
- 1 cup butter, softened – I recommend letting it sit out until it’s nice and creamy.
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar – sweetness is key here, so don’t skimp!
- 1 egg – this adds moisture and binds everything together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – because what’s a sugar cookie without that lovely vanilla flavor?
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract – this gives the cookies a delightful twist!
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – just a pinch to balance the sweetness.
How to Prepare Classic Amish Sugar Cookies
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—baking! Follow these steps to create your classic Amish sugar cookies that are sure to bring smiles all around.
Prepping the Oven and Mixing Dry Ingredients
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for creating that perfect cookie texture. While the oven heats up, grab a medium bowl and whisk together 2 3/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mixing your dry ingredients separately helps ensure an even distribution of leavening agents, which is key to fluffy cookies!
Creaming the Butter and Sugar
Next, in a large bowl, it’s time to cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of white sugar. I like to use an electric mixer for this, but you can also do it by hand if you’re feeling strong! Beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy—this should take about 3-5 minutes. The creaminess is what helps your cookies become soft and chewy, so make sure to get it just right!
Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, add in 1 egg, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract to your creamed mixture. Mix until well combined. Then, gradually blend in the dry ingredients from your earlier bowl. I recommend doing this in batches, mixing just until everything is combined. You don’t want to overmix at this stage—just gently fold until you can’t see any more flour. This will keep your cookies nice and tender!
Shaping and Baking the Cookies
Time to shape those cookies! Using a rounded teaspoon, drop the dough onto ungreased cookie sheets, leaving space between each mound. I like to give them a little sprinkle of sugar on top for an extra sweet touch before baking. Pop them in your preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them; you want them to be lightly golden around the edges. Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool on wire racks for a few minutes before transferring them. Wow, the aroma in your kitchen is going to be heavenly!
Tips for Success with Classic Amish Sugar Cookies
To ensure your classic Amish sugar cookies turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips! First, always measure your flour accurately—too much can lead to dry cookies. If you’re using a different oven, keep an eye on the baking time; some ovens run hotter than others, so adjust as needed. For storage, place your cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week. If you want to freeze them, separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. And remember, a sprinkle of sugar on top before baking adds a lovely touch of sweetness!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Please note that the nutritional information for these classic Amish sugar cookies can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. While I strive to provide accurate estimates, exact values are not guaranteed. Always check packaging for the most accurate nutritional data.
FAQ About Classic Amish Sugar Cookies
Got questions about making these delicious classic Amish sugar cookies? I’ve got you covered! Here are a few common queries that pop up, along with some helpful answers.
Can I substitute butter with margarine?
Yes, you can substitute margarine for butter, but keep in mind that it might slightly change the texture of your cookies. Margarine often has a higher water content, which can lead to cookies that spread more than you’d like. If you go this route, try to use a stick margarine rather than a tub for better results. Just be sure to cream it well with the sugar!
How should I store these cookies?
To keep your classic Amish sugar cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay nice for about a week. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them! Just layer them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips or nuts can give your cookies a fun twist. If you choose to add chocolate chips, I recommend about a cup for a perfect chocolatey balance. Nuts like pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch and flavor, too! Just remember, adding these ingredients may change the overall texture a bit, making them a bit less chewy and more textured, but oh-so-delicious!
Why You’ll Love Classic Amish Sugar Cookies
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy bakers!
- Soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Delightful vanilla and almond flavors that everyone will love.
- Versatile for any occasion—great for parties, holidays, or just a cozy night in.
- Simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
- Fun to decorate and customize with sprinkles or toppings.
- Perfect for sharing with friends and family, spreading joy with every bite!
Classic Amish Sugar Cookies: 7 Irresistible Secrets to Love
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Classic Amish sugar cookies are soft, chewy, and sweet with a light vanilla flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups white sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
- Add the egg, vanilla, and almond extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually blend in the dry ingredients.
- Drop by rounded teaspoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheets.
- Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on wire racks.
Notes
- For a decorative touch, sprinkle sugar on top before baking.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: classic amish sugar cookies
