Sugar Cookies

These classic sugar cookies are a treasure to make and give.

Classic sugar cookies—the kind that Grandma bakes—are a treasure to make and give. They are tender and moist in the center and crisp around the edges, yet firm enough to hold up to artful decorating. They can be sprinkled with colored sugar before or after baking or frosted using decorating bags and tips.

Makes 30 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup shortening
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • ¼ cup skim milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 ¼ cups flour, plus additional for rolling dough
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Sugar Cookie Frosting (see below)

Directions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, beat together shortening and sugar. Add eggs, milk and vanilla; beat until combined. In a separate bowl, stir together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add to shortening mixture and beat until well combined. Cover and chill in a refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  2. Preheat oven to 350°F. Dust work surface with flour. Roll dough ⅛ inch thick, cut with cookie cutters and place cutouts on cookie sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake in preheated oven for 9 to 11 minutes. Transfer cookies to wire rack to cool. Frost with Sugar Cookie Frosting (see below).

Associated Recipes

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