If you’ve ever dreamed of biting into a perfectly soft, buttery, and sweet cookie that instantly wraps you in a cozy, nostalgic hug, then you are in for a treat. The Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe is a timeless classic that blends simplicity and warmth in every bite. These cookies showcase how just a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create a treat that feels like it’s straight from an Amish kitchen—soft centers, slightly crisp edges, and a gentle sweetness that satisfies every craving. Whether you’re looking to impress at a family gathering or just sneak a special snack for yourself, these cookies are ready to become your new best friend in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s fantastic about the Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe is how few ingredients it requires, yet each one plays a starring role in creating their signature texture and flavor. With nothing fancy or hard to find, these basics combine to make something extraordinary.
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cookie, providing the tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Adds just the right amount of lift to keep your cookies light.
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar: Helps with texture and brings out a subtle tanginess that balances sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, comforting flavor that feels like home.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: The rich, creamy ingredient that gives these cookies their melt-in-your-mouth quality.
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and adds that classic sugar cookie sparkle.
- 2 large eggs: Provide moisture and bind everything together for the ideal chew.
- ¼ cup milk: Keeps the dough tender and easy to work with.
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for rolling): Gives the cookies a delicate sugary crust that adds a touch of crunch.
How to Make Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This ensures your cookies won’t stick and helps them bake evenly, giving you that perfect golden edge.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar together. Taking this step separately ensures your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which helps your cookies bake with consistent texture all around.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
Using a large bowl and an electric mixer or hand whisk, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which is key to a tender and soft cookie – watch as it turns into a creamy cloud of sweetness!
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Next, beat in the eggs one at a time. This allows them to fully blend into the batter without curdling. Follow with the vanilla extract, which adds depth and a rich aroma to your cookies, making them smell absolutely irresistible as they bake.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients and Milk
Now, add your dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture gradually, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry mixture. Mixing just until combined keeps the dough tender and avoids overworking, which can toughen the cookies. You want soft, not chewy like a brick!
Step 6: Shape and Sugar-Coat the Cookies
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into neat little balls. Then, roll each ball in the extra tablespoon of sugar – this final touch gives a sweet, sparkly finish and a bit of texture contrast against the soft cookie.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place your sugar-coated dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. Flatten each slightly with the bottom of a glass or your fingertips to help them bake evenly and develop that signature sugar cookie shape. Bake for 8-10 minutes until the edges are just turning golden but the centers remain soft. Resist the urge to overbake; the cookies will finish setting as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Let the cookies rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes after coming out of the oven—this gentle cooldown helps them firm up without losing their soft centers. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely, or dig in while warm if you cannot wait!
How to Serve Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe
Garnishes
While these cookies are fantastic as-is, rolling the dough in colored sugar or sprinkling a few festive sprinkles on top right before baking can add a delightful sparkly touch. For special occasions, a light drizzle of glaze or a dollop of frosting can elevate these simple beauties into party-worthy treats.
Side Dishes
Amish Sugar Cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea, rich coffee, or a cold glass of milk. They also make a sweet complement when served alongside fresh fruit or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert that feels both comforting and indulgent.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling playful, arrange these cookies in a beautiful cookie platter with an assortment of other favorites like chocolate chip, snickerdoodles, or oatmeal raisin. For a festive gathering, stack them with layers of parchment paper in a pretty tin or tie a stack with a ribbon for a charming homemade gift.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Amish Sugar Cookies fresh and soft, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay delicious and moist for up to a week, making them perfect to bake ahead for events or snack time.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these cookies later, they freeze wonderfully. Place completely cooled cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will last up to 3 months frozen without losing their charm.
Reheating
When you want that fresh-baked vibe again, simply warm frozen cookies in a regular oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes. Microwaving is quicker, but be careful as it can make the cookie slightly chewy. Warm and soft cookies are just a few minutes away!
FAQs
Can I substitute ingredients in the Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe?
Yes, tweaks like using almond extract instead of vanilla, or substituting milk with a dairy alternative, work well. Just keep the balance of wet and dry ingredients in mind for best results.
How do I know when the cookies are perfectly baked?
Look for lightly golden edges with centers that still appear soft. The cookies will firm up as they cool, which keeps their tender texture intact.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Chilling it actually helps the cookies hold their shape better and often enhances flavor.
Are these cookies gluten-free?
The traditional recipe calls for all-purpose flour, but you can substitute a gluten-free flour blend 1:1 to make them gluten-free without sacrificing taste or texture.
What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage. Keeping them sealed prevents them from drying out.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about the Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe that makes baking feel like creating a warm hug from the oven. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’re just moments away from cookies that melt in your mouth and bring smiles to all who taste them. Don’t hesitate—grab your mixing bowl, turn on your oven, and get ready to fall in love with these charming treats that feel both familiar and special. Happy baking!
Print
Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Total Time: 23-25 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Amish Sugar Cookies are soft, buttery, and lightly sweetened cookies that offer a tender texture with a delicate flavor. These classic American cookies are perfect for any occasion, bringing a nostalgic comfort with every bite. Made with simple pantry staples and easy steps, they yield cheerful, melt-in-your-mouth treats that are slightly crisp on the edges and chewy in the center.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for rolling)
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and cream of tartar. Set this mixture aside.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined to keep the dough tender.
- Shape the Cookies: Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll each into a ball. Roll each ball in granulated sugar to coat evenly.
- Bake: Place the sugar-coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Flatten each ball slightly using the bottom of a glass or your fingers. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
- For softer cookies, remove from oven as soon as edges turn light golden; centers will stay soft.
- Customize by rolling dough in colored sugar or sprinkles before baking for a festive look.
- Substitute almond extract for vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.
- Chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking can help cookies hold their shape and improve texture.
- You can freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months; thaw before serving.
- To make gluten-free, replace all-purpose flour with an equal amount of gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
- Sour cream in the recipe can be substituted with plain Greek yogurt for similar richness and tenderness.
