Introduction
Amish sugar cookies are a beloved classic, known for their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate sweetness. These cookies have been passed down through generations, embodying the simplicity and warmth of Amish baking traditions.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the best Amish sugar cookies recipe, including tips for perfect results, variations, and storage advice. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a family gathering, or just a sweet treat, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe
- ✅ Soft & Chewy Texture – Perfectly tender with a slight crisp edge.
- ✅ Simple Ingredients – Made with pantry staples.
- ✅ Versatile – Easy to customize with add-ins like sprinkles, lemon zest, or cinnamon.
- ✅ Great for Any Occasion – Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or everyday snacking.
- Preparation Time
15 minutes - Chilling (Optional)
30 minutes - Baking per Batch 10-12 minutes
- Total Time
25-30 minutes (without Chilling) - Total Time
55-60 minutes (Chilling Dough) - Serves
24 adults - Difficulty
Easy
Ingredients for Amish Sugar Cookies
Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious cookies:
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (2 sticks)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream (or plain yogurt for a lighter version)
For Rolling
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for coating the dough balls)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Step 4: Incorporate Sour Cream
- Mix in the sour cream until smooth.
Step 5: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
Step 6: Shape the Dough
- Scoop 1-inch balls of dough and roll them in granulated sugar for a sparkling finish.
- Place dough balls 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Tips for the Best Amish Sugar Cookies
- 🔹 Use Room Temperature Ingredients – Ensures even mixing and a smoother dough.
- 🔹 Don’t Overbake – The cookies will continue to set as they cool.
- 🔹 Chill the Dough (Optional) – For thicker cookies, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- 🔹 Add a Flavor Twist – Try almond extract, lemon zest, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Variations to Try
1. Lemon Amish Sugar Cookies
- Add 1 tbsp lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy twist.
2. Cinnamon Sugar Cookies
- Mix 1 tsp cinnamon into the rolling sugar for a warm, spiced flavor.
3. Sprinkles or Sanding Sugar
- Roll dough in colored sugar or sprinkles for festive cookies.
4. Brown Butter Amish Cookies
- Brown the butter before mixing for a rich, nutty flavor.
How to Store & Freeze Amish Sugar Cookies
Room Temperature Storage
- Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezing Instructions
- Unbaked Dough: Roll into balls and freeze on a tray. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen, adding 1-2 extra minutes.
- Baked Cookies: Freeze in layers separated by parchment paper for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
👨👩👧👦 Servings: How Many Does This Recipe Make?
This Amish Sugar Cookies recipe yields approximately 36 cookies, depending on size. Here’s a quick guide:
- Standard Serving: 2–3 cookies per person.
- For a Crowd:
- 12 people (3 cookies each).
- 24 people (1–2 cookies each, ideal for potlucks).
- Cookie Size Adjustments:
- 1-inch dough balls = 36 cookies (classic size).
- 1.5-inch dough balls = 24 larger cookies (bake 12–14 mins).
Tips for Scaling the Recipe
- Double the Batch: Use 2 baking sheets (rotate halfway for even baking).
- Halve the Recipe: Reduce all ingredients by 50% (bake 1 sheet at a time).
Why Servings Matter
- Meal Planning: Perfect for holidays, bake sales, or gifting.
- Consistent Sizing: Use a cookie scoop for uniform portions.
Place this section near the Ingredients or Tips for easy reference. Let me know if you’d like adjustments for dietary needs! 🍪
🍎 Nutritional Information (Per Cookie)
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal | 6% |
| Total Fat | 6g | 8% |
| – Saturated Fat | 3.5g | 18% |
| Cholesterol | 20mg | 7% |
| Sodium | 60mg | 3% |
| Total Carbs | 15g | 5% |
| – Sugars | 9g | 10% |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
*(% Daily Values based on a 2,000-calorie diet.)*
Dietary Notes:
- Vegetarian: Yes (contains dairy/eggs).
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with 1:1 GF flour blend.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce sugar to 1 cup (will affect texture slightly).
Key Nutritional Highlights:
✔ Moderate Calories – Great for occasional treats.
✔ Simple Ingredients – No artificial additives.
✔ Customizable – Adjust sugar/fat for dietary needs.
Final Thoughts
This Amish sugar cookies recipe delivers perfectly soft, buttery, and slightly tangy cookies that are irresistible. With simple ingredients and easy steps, they’re a foolproof treat for any occasion.
Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Amish tradition!
📌 Pin this recipe for later and share your baking results in the comments!
FAQs About Amish Sugar Cookies
1. Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt to ⅛ tsp.
2. Why are my cookies flat?
Possible causes:
- Butter was too soft or melted.
- Dough wasn’t chilled (if needed).
- Too much sugar or leavening agent.
3. Can I make these cookies without sour cream?
Yes! Substitute with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk.
4. Are Amish sugar cookies the same as regular sugar cookies?
No—Amish cookies are softer and slightly tangy due to the sour cream, while traditional sugar cookies are often crispier.
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Amish Sugar Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened (2 sticks)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream (or plain yogurt for a lighter version)
For Rolling
- ¼ cup granulated sugar (for coating the dough balls)
Instructions
Preheat & Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter & Sugar
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until well combin
Incorporate Sour Cream
- Mix in the sour cream until smooth.
Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
Shape the Dough
- Scoop 1-inch balls of dough and roll them in granulated sugar for a sparkling finish.
- Place dough balls 2 inches apart on the baking sheet.
Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
