Lorraine’s Sugar Cookies

Lorraine’s Sugar Cookies

Cook Time: 10 minutes

As a family tradition, my family gathers together to bake my wonderful sugar cookies for the holidays. My children and grandchildren look forward to baking and decorating cookies numerous times throughout the year. My sugar cookies have become extremely popular with friends, family, and coworkers. Unlike traditional cut-out sugar cookies, the almond extract and butter vanilla emulsion create uniquely flavored cookies which keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup salted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon LorAnn Butter Vanilla Emulsion
  • 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • Milk as needed, a teaspoon at a time

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400F (200C). Line a 13x18-inch baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until fluffy and light in texture.

Step 3: Add the egg, Butter Vanilla Emulsion, and almond extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat well until fully incorporated.

Step 4: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Step 5: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, one cup at a time, mixing after each addition. The dough will be very stiff, so for the last bit of flour, mix it in by hand.

Step 6: If the dough is too dry or crumbly, add milk one teaspoon at a time until it becomes smooth and manageable. Do not chill the dough.

Step 7: Divide the dough into two equal portions. On a floured surface, roll each portion out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.

Step 8: Before cutting out the cookies, dip the cookie cutter in flour to prevent sticking. Cut out the cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.

Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 8 to 11 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly browned on the bottom. Smaller cookies will bake more quickly, so keep an eye on them.

Step 10: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11: Once the cookies have cooled, decorate them with your favorite cookie icing for a festive touch.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

  • Calories: 161
  • Total Fat: 8g (10% DV)
  • Saturated Fat: 5g (25% DV)
  • Cholesterol: 28mg (9% DV)
  • Sodium: 105mg (5% DV)
  • Total Carbohydrates: 20g (7% DV)
  • Dietary Fiber: 0g (2% DV)
  • Total Sugars: 8g
  • Protein: 2g (4% DV)
  • Vitamin C: 0mg (0% DV)
  • Calcium: 29mg (2% DV)
  • Iron: 1mg (5% DV)
  • Potassium: 23mg (0% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Lorraine's Sugar Cookies are a beloved treat, cherished for their light, crisp texture and unique flavor profile. The addition of almond extract and LorAnn Butter Vanilla Emulsion gives these cookies a distinctive taste that sets them apart from traditional sugar cookies. This recipe has become a favorite in Lorraine's family and among her many fans, spreading quickly as a holiday and everyday delight.

History of Lorraines Sugar Cookies

The origin of Lorraines Sugar Cookies is rooted in family tradition. Lorraine Rector, the creator of the recipe, began baking these cookies for her children and grandchildren, and over the years, they became a holiday staple in her household. What started as a simple way to bring joy to her family has now become a popular recipe shared with the world, thanks to Lorraines passion for baking and her willingness to share her secrets. The use of both almond and vanilla extracts was a twist Lorraine added to make the cookies extra special, ensuring they would become favorites among those who tried them.

Regional Variations

Though sugar cookies are found throughout the United States, Lorraine's recipe has its own regional charm. In many areas, sugar cookies are a simple dough rolled and cut into shapes, but Lorraine's addition of LorAnn Butter Vanilla Emulsion and almond extract gives them a richer, more complex flavor. This makes them particularly popular in the Midwest, where family gatherings and bake sales are a common tradition. The buttery, slightly nutty flavor profile makes these cookies stand out from the more typical versions found in other regions.

Differences from Similar Cookies

While sugar cookies are a beloved dessert across the country, Lorraines Sugar Cookies offer something uniquely flavorful. Traditional sugar cookies often rely on basic ingredients like butter, sugar, and flour, with minimal flavor additions. However, Lorraines recipe elevates the taste with the addition of almond extract and LorAnn Butter Vanilla Emulsion, which creates a richer, more aromatic flavor. Unlike some sugar cookie recipes, Lorraines dough is not chilled, making it easier and quicker to prepare. Additionally, the cookies maintain their shape during baking, which makes them ideal for decorating with royal icing.

Where to Serve Lorraines Sugar Cookies

Lorraines Sugar Cookies are perfect for any occasion where a sweet treat is appreciated. They are especially popular at holiday gatherings, where families come together to bake and decorate. These cookies are also a favorite at bake sales, as their delicate texture and appealing flavor make them a hit with all ages. Whether served at a festive Christmas party, a birthday celebration, or a simple afternoon tea, Lorraines Sugar Cookies bring a touch of homemade warmth to any event. They are often served with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa, making them a perfect snack for cozy afternoons.

Fun Facts About Lorraines Sugar Cookies

  • Many families now make Lorraines Sugar Cookies part of their holiday traditions, with kids helping to roll, cut, and decorate the cookies.
  • The unique flavor of these cookies comes from the addition of LorAnn Butter Vanilla Emulsion, which is a baking ingredient not commonly found in all recipes, giving them a distinct flavor.
  • Despite their delicate texture, Lorraines Sugar Cookies are surprisingly durable when properly stored, lasting up to a week in an airtight container or even longer when frozen.
  • The dough doesnt need to be chilled, which makes it faster to prepare than many other cut-out cookie recipes.

Lorraines Sugar Cookies have become a symbol of family warmth and tradition, passed down through generations and shared with friends and loved ones. With their soft texture, delicious flavor, and versatility, they have become a favorite in many households, making them a perfect addition to your holiday celebrations or any time you want a comforting, sweet treat.

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FAQ about Lorraine’s Sugar Cookies

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. If you'd like them to last longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure they are properly sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. After mixing the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.

Yes, the dough is meant to be stiff. This is typical for sugar cookie dough, especially when using a high amount of flour. If the dough feels too dry, add a teaspoon of milk at a time until it's manageable.

Yes, you can substitute the LorAnn Butter Vanilla Emulsion with regular vanilla extract, although the flavor may differ slightly. The LorAnn emulsion gives the cookies a richer, more pronounced flavor.

Yes, you can freeze the decorated cookies. Allow the icing to fully dry before placing the cookies in an airtight container. To prevent them from sticking, you can separate layers of cookies with parchment paper.

The cookies are done when they are lightly browned on the bottom. The top of the cookie should remain pale. Smaller cookies will bake faster, so keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.

You can use royal icing, buttercream, or any other cookie icing of your choice. For a more festive touch, add sprinkles, colored sugars, or edible glitter to the icing.

Yes, you can adjust the recipe. For every additional batch, double the ingredients. Be mindful of your oven space and baking times, as you may need to bake multiple batches.

The combination of almond extract and butter vanilla emulsion creates a unique and irresistible flavor. These cookies are soft, flavorful, and perfect for decorating, making them a favorite among kids and adults alike.

It’s best to stick to all-purpose flour for this recipe to achieve the right texture. If you must substitute, try using cake flour for a softer cookie, but you may need to adjust the amount of milk if the dough becomes too soft.

Comments

Amy Campbell

11/27/2022 12:45:56 AM

I simply had to test out this recipe, and I'm so pleased that I did! I stuck to the instructions exactly as written, incorporating LorAnn Butter Emulsion Vanilla for the first time. The result? Delectable cookies that maintained their form perfectly. I managed to yield 31 4x3 gingerbread men cookies (which looked like reindeer when flipped over) from one and a half batches, as well as 24 3x3 snowflakes from the remaining half batch. Huge thanks for sharing your recipe, Lorraine - what a delicious treat!

Justin Hernandez

04/08/2024 04:29:46 AM

This recipe for roll-out sugar cookies is now my favorite! I couldn't find the LorAnn butter vanilla emulsion at Michaels, but luckily, Hobby Lobby had it and I managed to snag the last bottle. I highly recommend trying to get your hands on it as it truly elevates the cookies!

Charles Davis

02/08/2025 08:38:48 PM

These cookies are my absolute favorite to bake! I've whipped up batches for various events and they always turn out perfectly soft. Plus, when adorned with royal icing, they stay fresh for over a week in an airtight container, or can be stored in the freezer for a few months.