Vintage Amish Sugar Cookies

A simple, nostalgic sugar cookie with a tender crumb and buttery flavor—perfect for baking with family or sharing at gatherings.

introduction

These Vintage Amish Sugar Cookies are tender, buttery, and lightly golden at the edges—a classic recipe that feels like a cookie straight from a farmhouse kitchen. The dough is easy to mix and quick to bake, making it ideal for bakers of any skill level. For another simple cookie to try later, see Almond Joy Cookies for a different flavor twist.

why make this recipe

• Fuss-free ingredients you likely already have on hand.
• Quick to prepare and bake—ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.
• Produces consistently soft, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are great for packing or sharing.
• A timeless recipe that evokes homemade comfort and simple, honest flavors.

how to make Vintage Amish Sugar Cookies

Follow the straightforward steps below—the dough comes together in minutes and the cookies bake quickly.

Ingredients :

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions :

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
6. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
   
   

how to serve Vintage Amish Sugar Cookies

Serve these cookies plain to enjoy their buttery purity, or dust with a little powdered sugar for a delicate finish. They pair beautifully with a glass of cold milk, a cup of coffee, or tea. For a special presentation at gatherings, arrange them on a platter with a few chocolate-dipped varieties like cheesecake-stuffed or other favorites—see this fun idea: cheesecake-stuffed chocolate chip cookies.

how to store Vintage Amish Sugar Cookies

• At room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
• To freeze: Place cooled cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze briefly, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

tips to make Vintage Amish Sugar Cookies

• Use room-temperature butter and egg for easier creaming and a smoother dough.
• Don’t overbake—edges should be just lightly golden to keep centers soft.
• If dough is too sticky to drop, chill it 15–20 minutes for easier handling.
• For uniform cookies, use a small cookie scoop to portion dough.
• If you prefer a crisper texture, flatten dough slightly before baking and bake an extra 1–2 minutes.

variation (if any)

• Lemon Sugar: Add 1 teaspoon lemon zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy note.
• Frosted: Once cooled, spread a simple vanilla glaze (powdered sugar + milk + vanilla) and add sprinkles for festive occasions.
• Spiced: Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon for a warm, spiced twist.

FAQ

Q: Can I roll and cut this dough into shapes?
A: The recipe as written is a drop cookie. To cut shapes, chill the dough until firm and, if needed, add a tablespoon more flour to reach a rollable consistency.

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time?
A: Yes—refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 1 month. Allow chilled dough to sit at room temperature a few minutes before scooping.

Q: Will these cookies spread too much?
A: Properly creamed butter and chilled baking sheets help control spreading. If your cookies spread excessively, chill the dough briefly before baking.

Conclusion

For the original inspiration and an alternate vintage version, check these resources: Amish Sugar Cookies recipe – The Gold Lining Girl and Vintage Amish Sugar Cookies – My Incredible Recipes.