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Amish Sugar Cookies

Amish Sugar Cookies

These authentic Amish sugar cookies are incredibly soft, sweet, and tender thanks to a unique combination of both granulated and confectioners' sugar plus vegetable oil. The secret ingredient - cream of tartar - creates that perfect chewy texture that stays soft for days. Easy enough for kids to help make, these cookies are perfect plain or topped with classic vanilla frosting. A true family favorite that's been passed down through generations of Amish kitchens
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American, Amish
Servings 12

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup butter or margarine, softened
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 eggs
  • 5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar

Frosting

  • 1 cup shortening
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 cups confectioners’ sugar, plus more if needed
  • ½ cup milk
  • Food coloring (optional)
  • Sprinkles (optional) 

Instructions
 

  • Heat the oven to 350°F.
  • In a large bowl, cream together the confectioners’ sugar, granulated sugar, butter (or margarine), oil and vanilla until light and fluffy.
  • In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking soda, and cream of tartar.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until well combined.
  • Form the cookie dough into walnut-size balls, and place 2 inches apart on ungreased baking sheets.
  • Flatten the balls using the bottom of a glass dipped in sugar. Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges turn golden brown.
  • Allow the cookies to cool for two minutes on the baking sheets before removing. Transfer the cookies to wire racks to cool completely.
  • Cookies may then be frosted if desired.For the frosting: Cream the shortening and the vanilla and 1 cup of the confectioners’ sugar.
  • Gradually add the milk and the rest of the sugar, beating constantly. More sugar can be added to provide the desired thickness
  • . Food coloring can be added if you like. Spread the frosting on the cookies, and decorate with sprinkles if you like. Let the frosting set before storing.Makes 4 dozen cookies.