What makes Grandma’s sugar cookies different?

Grandma’s cookies focus on simplicity and texture—using pantry staples like butter, oil, and cream of tartar to create soft, chewy cookies with a tender crumb. They're less processed, more nostalgic, and often include small twists like citrus zest or handmade shaping.

Can I freeze the dough or baked cookies?

Absolutely. Dough can be frozen in balls and baked straight from the freezer. Baked cookies also freeze well in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Why use cream of tartar in sugar cookies?

Cream of tartar gives these cookies their signature chewy texture and helps stabilize the dough, making the cookies puff up slightly without spreading too thin.

How do I keep sugar cookies soft for days?

Store them in an airtight container with a slice of white bread. The bread releases moisture, which the cookies absorb, staying soft longer.

What’s the best way to decorate these cookies?

Roll in colored sugar before baking, or top with glaze or royal icing once cooled. These cookies also work well with cut-out shapes and cookie stamps.

Grandma’s Sugar Cookies – Best Chewy Recipe to Bake Now

Grandma’s Sugar Cookies

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Soft, chewy, and nostalgic, Grandma’s Sugar Cookies are the perfect blend of classic flavors and tender texture. Made with pantry staples and a touch of lemon zest, this recipe is a timeless favorite for holidays and everyday baking.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 48 cookies 1x
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 cup extra virgin olive oil or vegetable oil
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
5 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons cream of tartar
Pinch of salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Line two cookie sheets with parchment paper.
In a large bowl or stand mixer, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy (3–4 minutes).
Add eggs one at a time, mixing until combined. Add oil and vanilla extract and mix well.
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cream of tartar, and salt.
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture on low speed until fully combined. Use a spatula if needed.
Use a cookie scoop to portion dough and roll into balls.
Roll each ball in granulated sugar and place 2 inches apart on prepared baking sheets.
Flatten slightly with a fork or glass.
Bake for 8–10 minutes until edges are lightly golden.
Let cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet, then transfer to a wire rack.

Notes

Add lemon zest for a citrusy twist.
Freeze dough balls for later use—bake from frozen with a slightly longer bake time.
Store cookies in an airtight container with a slice of bread to keep them soft.
Use cookie cutters for holiday shapes or events.
Decorate with royal icing or glaze for added flair.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cookie
Calories: 130
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 50mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Fiber: 0.5g
Protein: 1g
Cholesterol: 15mg

Find it online: https://recipeshots.com/grandmas-sugar-cookies-recipe/