Amish Brown Sugar Cookies: A Classic Comfort Treat
Table of Contents
The Story Behind Amish Brown Sugar Cookies
The Amish community is renowned for its simple yet hearty recipes, and these cookies embody that philosophy. Originally created as a way to use up leftover ingredients, they quickly became a favorite due to their irresistible taste and ease of preparation. Today, they remain a cherished treat, celebrated for their comforting flavors and nostalgic appeal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: Rich brown sugar and warm spices create a cozy, nostalgic taste.
- Easy to Make: Requires basic ingredients and minimal effort.
- Perfect for Sharing: Ideal for cookie exchanges, gift baskets, or gifting to loved ones.
- Guilt-Free Enjoyment: Made with wholesome ingredients, perfect for indulging without overindulging.
Variations
- Spiced Option: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for extra warmth.
- Nutty Twist: Stir in chopped walnuts, pecans, or coconut flakes.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with vegan butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individually or store in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
Leftovers
- Package into gift boxes or tins for friends and neighbors.
- Add to lunchboxes or serve with coffee for a midday treat.
- Use as a topping for ice cream or yogurt for added crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! Bake and freeze the cookies, then thaw and glaze before serving.
How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Chill the dough for 10-15 minutes before rolling to help maintain shape.
What if I don’t like the glaze?
Omit it entirely or dust with powdered sugar instead.
Can I use light brown sugar?
Yes, but dark brown sugar provides a richer molasses flavor.
Amish Brown Sugar Cookies Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 2 dozen cookies
Ingredients
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Directions
Prepare the Cookies:
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
- Chill the dough for 10-15 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll dough into 1-inch balls and place on prepared baking sheets, spacing about 2 inches apart.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool completely on the pan.
Make the Glaze:
- In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Drizzle or spread the glaze over cooled cookies.
- Let glaze set before serving.
Nutritional Information (per cookie)
| Calories | 120 |
|---|---|
| Carbohydrates | 18g |
| Total Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 20mg |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 9g |
| Protein | 2g |
Recipe Notes
- Chilling the dough helps prevent spreading during baking.
- Adjust the amount of cinnamon for desired spice level.
- Store cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
- For a softer glaze, add a splash more milk; for a thicker glaze, add more powdered sugar.
Final Thoughts
The **Amish Brown Sugar Cookies** are a timeless treat that embodies the warmth and simplicity of traditional baking. With their soft, buttery texture and rich brown sugar flavor, these cookies are sure to bring joy to anyone who tries them. Whether you’re sharing them with family, gifting them to friends, or enjoying them as a quiet afternoon snack, these cookies are a delightful reminder of the comfort found in homemade treats. Bake a batch today and savor the nostalgia!
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