Frequently Asked Questions
What is the preheat temperature for Nanny's Classic Sugar Cookies?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C) before baking the cookies.
How long should I chill the cookie dough?
The dough needs to be covered with plastic wrap and chilled in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
What ingredients are used to cream together at the start?
You should cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 1/2 cups of sifted powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
How thick should the sugar cookie dough be rolled out?
The dough should be rolled out to a thickness of approximately 1/8 inch.
What is the baking time for these cookies?
Bake the cookies for 7 to 8 minutes, or until the edges are just lightly golden.
Should I grease the cookie sheet before baking?
No, the instructions specify transferring the cut-out shapes to an ungreased cookie sheet.
What flavor extracts are required for this recipe?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract and 1/2 teaspoon of pure almond extract.
What dry ingredients need to be whisked together separately?
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar.
What should I use to dust the surface when rolling out the dough?
You should lightly dust your clean, flat rolling surface with powdered sugar instead of flour.
How do I know when the sugar cookies are done?
The cookies are done when the edges are lightly golden; be careful not to overbake them so they remain soft.
Can I frost Nanny's Classic Sugar Cookies?
Yes, you can frost them with your favorite cookie frosting once they have cooled, or enjoy them plain.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 main ingredients: butter, powdered sugar, egg, vanilla extract, almond extract, flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
What type of flour is recommended?
The recipe calls for 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour.
What is the role of the egg in this recipe?
One beaten egg is added to the creamed butter and sugar mixture to help bind the ingredients.
How should the cookies be cooled after baking?
Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack after removing them from the oven.
Is the powdered sugar used in the dough supposed to be sifted?
Yes, the ingredient list specifies 1 1/2 cups of sifted powdered sugar.
What is the texture of these cookies described as?
They are known for a delightful, buttery texture that is soft if not overbaked.
Who originally passed down this recipe?
The recipe was passed down by Nanny and shared by FOURMRANCHWIFE in Texas.
Are these cookies suitable for holiday shapes?
Yes, the dough rolls out perfectly and is ideal for being shaped with festive cookie cutters.
What happens if I overbake the cookies?
Overbaking will cause them to lose their signature softness; they should only be baked until the edges are lightly golden.
When do I add the vanilla and almond extracts?
Add the extracts to the creamed butter and sugar mixture along with the beaten egg, blending until well combined.
What kind of butter should I use for the best results?
The recipe calls for 1 cup of softened butter to ensure it creams properly with the sugar.
Is cream of tartar necessary for this recipe?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of cream of tartar is included as a dry ingredient to assist with the cookie's texture.
How is the dough formed?
The dough is formed by gradually adding the whisked dry ingredients to the creamed wet mixture and stirring until combined.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include sugar cookies, nanny's recipe, dessert, baking, family recipe, classic cookies, and holiday treats.
Can I use granulated sugar instead of powdered sugar?
The recipe specifically calls for powdered sugar, which contributes to the specific texture Nanny's cookies are known for.
Do I need to beat the egg before adding it to the bowl?
Yes, the ingredient list specifies the 1 egg should be beaten before being added.
What is the preparation for the baking soda?
1 teaspoon of baking soda is used with no specific preparation other than whisking it with the other dry ingredients.
Is this a traditional family recipe?
Yes, it is a cherished recipe passed through generations, embodying family baking traditions.
Where can I find more recipes from this source?
This recipe was provided by FOURMRANCHWIFE from Texas.