Amish Sugar Cookies
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A Sweet Journey into Amish Sugar Cookies
Amish Sugar Cookies have a special place in my heart and kitchen, often bringing back memories of cozy gatherings and warm family moments. Their soft and tender texture, paired with that delightful peppermint hint, makes them an irresistible treat! Whether it’s the holiday season or a simple afternoon gathering, these cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to whip up, making them an ideal choice for any occasion.
"These cookies were a hit at our family get-together! They’re so soft and melt in your mouth. The peppermint adds a nice twist. I’ll definitely be making them again!" – A delighted baker
Reasons to Try Amish Sugar Cookies
If you’re wondering why these cookies should be your next baking adventure, let me share a few reasons. First, they are quick to prepare, needing only simple ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Second, their festive taste, especially with the peppermint extract, makes them a perfect holiday cookie that everyone enjoys. Lastly, they’re incredibly versatile! You can serve them at casual gatherings, holiday parties, or just bake a batch to enjoy with your morning coffee. Ample reasons to give this recipe a try, wouldn’t you agree?
How This Recipe Comes Together
Creating these delicious Amish Sugar Cookies is a straightforward process that any home baker can tackle. You’ll start by creaming your fats and sugars, mix in the eggs and extracts, combine your dry ingredients, and then bake until golden. Finally, with a decadent icing that includes melted butter and crushed peppermint candies, you can take these cookies to the next level of festive delight!
What You’ll Need
Before you dive in, make sure you have the following ingredients ready:
- 1 C unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 C vegetable oil
- 1 C sugar
- 1 C powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- 4 1/2 C all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp cream of tartar
- 4 TBSP unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for icing)
- 1 1/2 tsp peppermint extract (for icing)
- 1/4 C + 1-2 TBSP whole milk
- 4 1/2 C powdered sugar (for icing)
- Garnish: 1 C finely crushed peppermint candies
Tip: If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, feel free to substitute margarine or a plant-based butter for the unsalted butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line your cookie sheets with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then beat in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until everything is well incorporated.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop the dough onto the prepared sheets, leaving space for spreading.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to brown.
- While the cookies cool, prepare the icing by mixing the melted butter, vanilla, peppermint extract, and milk into the powdered sugar until smooth.
- Drizzle the icing over each cooled cookie and generously sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
Best Ways to Enjoy Your Cookies
Once your Amish Sugar Cookies are iced and adorned with peppermint, they are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them on a festive platter at your holiday party for a colorful treat that looks as good as it tastes. Pair them with a warm cup of cocoa, coffee, or chai tea for a delightful afternoon snack. For an added touch, you might even place them in treat bags as thoughtful gifts!
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To keep your leftover cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They’ll last for about 5-7 days. If you want to extend their lifespan, consider freezing them! Place the cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper, and they can last for up to three months.
Helpful Cooking Tips
To ensure your cookies are perfect every time, here are a few handy tricks:
- When measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup then level it off to avoid dense cookies.
- Make sure your butter is softened, not melted; this creates the right texture.
- Chill the cookie dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes if it’s too sticky to work with.
Creative Twists on the Classic Recipe
While the peppermint flavor is a classic, don’t hesitate to experiment! Try using orange or almond extract for a different twist, or incorporate chocolate chips or nuts for added texture. You might also substitute the crushed peppermint candies on top with crushed Oreos or colorful sprinkles for a fun variation.
Your Questions Answered
Q: What are the prep and cook times for this recipe?
A: The total prep time is about 15 minutes, with a baking time of approximately 10 minutes per batch.
Q: Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that performs well in baking.
Q: How can I ensure my cookies remain soft?
A: Make sure not to overbake them. They should be just set and barely golden at the edges; they will continue to firm up while cooling.
With Amish Sugar Cookies, you’re not just baking a treat but creating a memory. Enjoy the process, share with loved ones, and savor each delightful bite!
Amish Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and line your cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, sugar, and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then beat in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until well incorporated.
- Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop the dough onto the prepared sheets, leaving space for spreading.
- Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just starting to brown.
- While the cookies cool, prepare the icing by mixing the melted butter, vanilla, peppermint extract, and milk into the powdered sugar until smooth.
- Drizzle the icing over each cooled cookie and generously sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
