Amish Sugar Cookies
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Amish Sugar Cookies: A Sweet Tradition
Amish Sugar Cookies have a delightful way of bringing joy to any gathering. These cookies are soft, chewy, and bursting with the delightful flavor of peppermint, making them especially popular during the holiday season. My first encounter with this recipe was at a family reunion, where the aroma of freshly baked cookies filled the air, drawing everyone to the kitchen. It’s the type of recipe that beholds a legacy, passed down through generations, and every bite serves a sweet reminder of tradition and warmth.
Reasons to Try This Recipe
If you’re looking for a cookie that’s simple yet impressively scrumptious, Amish Sugar Cookies should be at the top of your list. Not only are they quick and cost-effective to make, but these cookies are also a hit with both kids and adults. The blend of soft butter, sugar, and a kick of peppermint creates a sweet treat that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.
“These Amish Sugar Cookies are a family favorite! Soft, fluffy, and just the right amount of sweetness. Perfect for any occasion!” – Happy Baker
Preparing Amish Sugar Cookies
Making Amish Sugar Cookies is remarkably straightforward, making it an ideal choice for both novice and seasoned bakers. Here’s a snapshot of the steps you’ll follow to create these delightful treats:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- Mix and bake the cookie dough.
- Whip up a lovely peppermint icing.
- Dress your cookies in icing and crushed peppermint.
Each step is designed for easy execution, ensuring you can whip up a batch in no time!
What You’ll Need
Here’s the ingredient list for these charming cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (soft)
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1½ teaspoons peppermint extract
- 4½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ teaspoons peppermint extract
- ¼ cup + 1-2 tablespoons whole milk
- 4½ cups powdered sugar
- Garnish: 1 cup finely crushed peppermint candies
Feel free to substitute the vegetable oil with coconut oil for a richer taste, or you can use gluten-free flour if you need a gluten-free alternative.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- Mix the Dough: In a large bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter, vegetable oil, sugar, and powdered sugar. Add in the eggs, vanilla, and peppermint extracts, mixing well.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Shape and Bake: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough onto prepared sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Prepare the Icing: For the icing, mix melted unsalted butter, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, whole milk, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Decorate: Drizzle the icing over cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
While Amish Sugar Cookies are delicious on their own, there are several creative ways to elevate your experience. Serve them warm with a side of hot cocoa or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy dessert. They also make delightful gifts if wrapped in decorative bags for friends and family. Consider hosting a cookie decorating party where everyone can customize their cookies with various icings and toppings.
Keeping Leftovers Fresh
To store your delightful cookies, place them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about one week. For longer storage, consider freezing them; just ensure they’re fully cooled and wrapped well. When ready to eat, simply let them thaw at room temperature, and they’ll be just as delectable.
Helpful Baking Tips
Here are a few tips to ensure your Amish Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly every time:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smooth mixture.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined to keep the cookies soft.
- Chill Your Dough: If the dough feels too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking.
Creative Twists
Feel free to get innovative! You could substitute the peppermint extract with almond or lemon extract for a unique flavor profile. Adding mini chocolate chips or using colored icing for icing can also create visually stunning variations. For a holiday twist, consider adding festive sprinkles!
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to make Amish Sugar Cookies?
The total time, from prep to baking, is about 30-40 minutes.
Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes, they freeze well! Just store them in an airtight container after they cool completely.
What if I don’t have peppermint extract?
You can either omit it or replace it with another extract. Vanilla and almond extracts are terrific substitutes.
By following this delightful recipe for Amish Sugar Cookies, you’ll not only enjoy the process but also create lasting memories with each bite. Happy baking!
Amish Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and line cookie sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together softened unsalted butter, vegetable oil, sugar, and powdered sugar. Add in the eggs, vanilla, and peppermint extracts, mixing well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to drop dough onto prepared sheets. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
- For the icing, mix melted unsalted butter, vanilla extract, peppermint extract, whole milk, and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Drizzle the icing over cooled cookies and sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies.
