Grandma Davis’ Unforgettable Soft & Chewy Sugar Cookies
Grandma Davis’ Sugar Cookies: A cherished recipe for soft, chewy perfection.
When it comes to holiday baking, or simply a comforting treat any time of year, there’s one recipe that always takes center stage in my kitchen: Grandma Davis’ Sugar Cookies. It might sound surprising, but Grandma Davis isn’t even my biological grandmother. Yet, her tried-and-true sugar cookie recipe has become an annual tradition, a staple I look forward to making and sharing with loved ones. These aren’t just any cookies; they are an embodiment of warmth, nostalgia, and pure, unadulterated deliciousness.
You might have heard me mention my dear friend, Tonja, before. Well, Grandma Davis is her wonderful grandmother. Over the years, Tonja has graciously shared many culinary treasures from her family, but none have captured my heart, and my taste buds, quite like these sugar cookies. Each bite transports me back to simpler times, filled with laughter and the sweet scent of baking. This recipe isn’t just about ingredients and steps; it’s about the legacy of a grandmother’s love, passed down through generations, and now, shared with you.
From the moment you take these cookies out of the oven, you’ll understand their magic. They are consistently, incredibly good. If your ideal cookie involves a delightful balance of soft, chewy texture, perfectly frosted and beautifully cut into festive shapes, then look no further. This recipe is specifically for you!
Imagine biting into a cookie that’s tender on the inside with a slight crispness at the edges, topped with a creamy, sweet frosting. That’s precisely what Grandma Davis’ recipe delivers. It’s the kind of sugar cookie that makes you close your eyes and savor every moment, the kind that disappears from the cookie jar faster than you can bake them. Perfect for holiday gatherings, school bake sales, or simply a cozy afternoon at home, these cookies are guaranteed to impress everyone lucky enough to try them.
A touch of almond extract elevates even store-bought vanilla frosting to a new level.
Why Grandma Davis’ Sugar Cookies Are a Must-Try
What makes these sugar cookies stand out in a sea of countless recipes? It’s the unique combination of ingredients and technique that results in a cookie that is truly unparalleled. Many sugar cookie recipes yield a dry or crumbly result, but not this one. Grandma Davis’ secret lies in creating a dough that remains incredibly tender, even after baking. The chilling process is paramount, allowing the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up, ensuring your cut-outs hold their shape beautifully without spreading excessively in the oven.
The Perfect Texture: Soft, Chewy, and Never Dry
The hallmark of a perfect sugar cookie is its texture, and Grandma Davis mastered it. These cookies boast a tender, melt-in-your-mouth quality, with just enough chewiness to make them satisfying. They aren’t crispy or brittle; instead, they offer a delightful softness that makes them ideal for frosting and decorating. This consistency is achieved through a careful balance of fat and flour, resulting in a cookie that stays fresh and delicious for days, provided they last that long!
Frosted Perfection: Simple Yet Irresistible
While the cookie itself is a star, the frosting is the crown jewel. Whether you opt for a homemade powdered sugar icing or a convenient store-bought variety, the key is the added hint of almond extract. This simple addition transforms a basic vanilla frosting into something extraordinary, complementing the subtle sweetness of the cookie dough perfectly. The smooth, creamy frosting, whether spread generously or drizzled artfully, adds an extra layer of sweetness and visual appeal, making these cookies truly irresistible. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a beautifully frosted cookie?
Santa will be SURE to leave you somethin’ Good this year with these delicious cookies!
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Print Recipe
Grandma Davis’ Sugar Cookies
5 minutes
7 minutes
8 hours
8 hours
12 minutes
American
Sugar Cookies, Frosted Cookies, Holiday Cookies, Cut-Out Cookies
18
cookies
395
kcal
Michaela Kenkel
Ingredients
-
1 1/2
cup
shortening or butter
I usually use butter flavored Crisco for extra tenderness and flavor. -
2
cup
granulated sugar -
4
large eggs -
2
t.
vanilla extract -
5
cups
all-purpose flour -
2
t.
baking soda -
2
t.
salt
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the shortening (or butter) and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for incorporating air and achieving a tender cookie. Then, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tough cookies. The dough will be soft.
- Form the dough into a ball, flatten it slightly into a disc, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and chill overnight in the refrigerator (at least 8 hours). This extended chilling period is essential for developing flavor and preventing the cookies from spreading too much during baking, ensuring your cut-outs maintain their sharp edges.
- Once chilled, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190°C). Lightly flour a clean surface and a rolling pin. Roll out portions of the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes and carefully transfer them to baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for approximately 7 minutes. It is crucial to watch them very closely! These cookies should remain soft and should not brown around the edges. They are done when the edges are just set and the centers look slightly pale. Overbaking will result in a dry cookie.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once fully cooled, frost with your preferred powdered sugar icing.
Notes for Perfect Sugar Cookies
The number of cookies you get will vary significantly based on the size of the cookie cutters you use. This recipe typically yields about 18 medium-sized cookies.
**Importance of Chilling:** Do not skip the overnight chilling! This step is key to preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, ensuring your shapes remain defined, and contributes to the soft, chewy texture.
**Ingredient Quality:** Using good quality butter (if not using shortening) and fresh vanilla extract will make a noticeable difference in the final taste of your sugar cookies.
**Storage:** Store frosted sugar cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. Unfrosted cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
Serving:
1
|
Calories:
395
kcal
|
Carbohydrates:
49
g
|
Protein:
5
g
|
Fat:
20
g
|
Saturated Fat:
8
g
|
Polyunsaturated Fat:
11
g
|
Cholesterol:
54
mg
|
Sodium:
425
mg
|
Fiber:
1
g
|
Sugar:
22
g
Baking Tips for Success with Grandma Davis’ Sugar Cookies
Achieving the perfect batch of Grandma Davis’ sugar cookies is simple once you know a few key tips. These pointers will help you recreate the same soft, chewy, and beautifully shaped cookies every single time.
Creaming Butter and Sugar Properly
The first step, creaming the shortening or butter with sugar, is more important than you might think. This process incorporates air into the mixture, which is what gives the cookies their light and tender texture. Beat them together until the mixture is visibly lighter in color and fluffy, typically for 3-5 minutes. Don’t rush this step!
The Magic of Chilling Dough
As noted in the recipe, chilling the dough overnight is non-negotiable for these sugar cookies. This allows the fat to firm up, preventing the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, thus preserving the intricate shapes of your cookie cutters. It also gives the flour time to fully hydrate and the flavors to deepen, resulting in a more uniform texture and richer taste. If you’re short on time, aim for at least 2-4 hours, but overnight is truly best.
Rolling and Cutting with Ease
When you’re ready to roll out the chilled dough, work with small portions at a time, keeping the rest of the dough refrigerated. Lightly flour your work surface and rolling pin to prevent sticking, but avoid using too much flour as it can make the cookies tough. Roll the dough to an even 1/4-inch thickness for consistent baking. For clean cuts, dip your cookie cutters in flour before each use.
Mastering the Bake Time
This is arguably the most critical step for achieving soft and chewy sugar cookies. Seven minutes at 375°F is a guideline, but ovens vary. The key is to watch them like a hawk! You want the edges to be just barely set and the centers to still look slightly pale and soft. They should not turn golden brown. If they start to brown, they’ve been in too long and will likely be crisp rather than chewy. They will continue to set as they cool on the baking sheet.
Frosting for Flavor and Fun
Once your cookies are completely cool, it’s time for the frosting. As mentioned, the almond extract in any vanilla frosting, whether homemade or store-bought, truly elevates the flavor profile. For an elegant look, simply drizzle the warmed, almond-infused frosting over the cookies. For more elaborate designs, allow the frosting to set slightly before adding sprinkles or other decorations. This is a fantastic activity for kids and adults alike, especially during the holidays!
Creative Variations and Serving Suggestions
While Grandma Davis’ recipe is perfect as is, there’s always room for a little creativity! Consider adding a teaspoon of lemon zest to the dough for a subtle citrus note, or a pinch of nutmeg for a warmer, spicier cookie. You could also experiment with different extracts in the frosting, such as lemon, peppermint, or even rum extract for an adult twist.
These classic frosted cut-out sugar cookies are ideal for any celebration. They’re a hit at birthday parties, baby showers, and of course, during the Christmas season when decorated with festive sprinkles and colors. They make wonderful edible gifts for neighbors, teachers, and friends. Pair them with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy treat.
Conclusion: A Timeless Tradition
Grandma Davis’ Sugar Cookies are more than just a recipe; they are a timeless tradition, a testament to the simple joy of homemade treats. The soft, chewy texture, combined with the sweet, almond-kissed frosting, creates a cookie that is truly special and universally loved. Whether you’re making them for the first time or the hundredth, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and create cherished memories. So, gather your ingredients, enlist some helpers, and prepare to bake the best sugar cookies you’ve ever tasted. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your creations!