Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Name: Sugar Cookies Without Butter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup vegetable oil; 1/4 cup applesauce; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 egg

Sugar cookies hold a special place in the hearts of many, evoking nostalgia with every bite. The sweet, soft, and slightly chewy delight, especially when made without butter, opens the door for everyone, whether you’re watching your dairy intake or just want to try something a little different. Let’s venture into this exciting world of butter-free baking, where sugar reigns supreme, and enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade sugar cookies.

Why Make This Recipe

Perfect for those with dairy allergies or lactose intolerance.
A surprisingly delightful texture and flavor, even without butter.
Simple ingredients mean you can whip them up anytime you’re in the mood for a treat.

With these delightful cookies, you can indulge guilt-free, knowing they cater to a variety of dietary needs while remaining delicious.

Making Sugar Cookies Without Butter

Transitioning from classic recipes often opens the door to creativity in the kitchen. You might ask what makes these sugar cookies stand out. The absence of butter may seem like a drawback at first, but fear not! The combination of vegetable oil and applesauce not only provides fat but also adds a unique sweetness and moisture to your cookies. Plus, this means a broader appeal without sacrificing taste.

Ready to bring some sweetness into your life? Let’s dive into how to make these delightful treats.

Ingredients

To create these blissful sugar cookies without butter, gather the following ingredients:

1 cup granulated sugar
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup applesauce
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 egg

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar, vegetable oil, applesauce, vanilla extract, and egg until well blended.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until fully combined.
Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie.
Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden.
Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Storage Tips for Sugar Cookies Without Butter

To keep your delicious sugar cookies in perfect condition, here’s how to store them properly:

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container. They will last about 3-4 days at room temperature.
Refrigerator: For extended freshness, you can refrigerate them for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze the cookies for up to 2 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in a freezer bag.

This way, your sugar cookies will stay soft and delightful, ready for whenever the craving strikes!

Best Ways to Serve Sugar Cookies Without Butter

When it comes to serving these tasty creations, there are many ways to elevate the experience:

Classic Dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar right before serving can add an elegant touch.
Icing or Glaze: Consider using a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and water to give the cookies an extra sweet finish.
Creative Toppings: Top with sprinkles, nuts, or mini chocolate chips before baking for added flavor and texture.
Ice Cream Sandwich: For a fun treat, sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two cookies—perfect for warm days.

Once you start experimenting with serving styles, you’ll find they can be just as exciting to present as they are to eat!

Tips to Make Sugar Cookies Without Butter

When it comes to baking, even the smallest details can make a significant difference. Here are a few quick tips to ensure your sugar cookies turn out perfectly:

Chill the Dough: If you notice the dough is too sticky, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before baking. This will help your cookies hold their shape.
Measurement is Key: When measuring flour, make sure to scoop it gently, avoiding packing it down, which could result in dry cookies.
Watch the Baking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep a close eye on your cookies during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overcooking.

Variations or Substitutions

There’s no limit to how creative you can get with these sugar cookies. Here are a couple of variations to enhance your baking experience:

Chocolate Chip Sugar Cookies: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet treat that combines classic sugar cookies with rich chocolate.
Flavor Infusions: Instead of vanilla extract, try almond, lemon, or orange extract for a delightful twist that elevates the flavor profile.

These simple swaps can lead to new favorite variations that keep things exciting.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! Prepare the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it. When you’re ready, simply scoop and bake.

Q: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
A: Yes, you can substitute half the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for added health benefits, keeping in mind this might slightly change the texture and flavor.

Q: How do I know when my cookies are done?
A: Look for golden edges—if the centers still appear soft, that’s okay; they will firm up as they cool.

Q: Do these cookies freeze well?
A: Yes! These cookies can be frozen. Simply wrap them tightly and pop them in the freezer to enjoy later.

Q: Can I add nuts to the cookies?
A: Yes! Chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans can complement the sweetness of the cookies and provide a delightful crunch.

Nutritional Info

While these sugar cookies are a treat, it’s helpful to have some nutritional information at hand. While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredient brands and measures, here’s an approximate breakdown per cookie (based on 24 cookies):

Calories: 85
Fat: 3g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 1g
Sodium: 70mg

Enjoy your sugar cookies mindfully, savoring each bite.

What to Serve With Sugar Cookies Without Butter

These cookies are versatile companions; consider serving alongside:

Hot Beverages: Pair them with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for an inviting afternoon snack.
Fresh Fruits: They can complement fruits like strawberries or peaches during a summer gathering.
Cheese Platters: Include them on a dessert cheese platter with mascarpone or cream cheese to balance sweetness with creamy textures.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can sometimes lead to unexpected outcomes. Here are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them:

Overmixing the Dough: This can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until ingredients are combined.
Underbaking: Cookies might seem done when they are still soft, but they’ll continue to cook on the baking sheet once removed from the oven—aim for golden edges.
Not Using a Parchment Liner: Baking without parchment can lead to cookies that stick to the pan, making them difficult to remove.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to cookie perfection.

Embracing Dairy-Free Sugar Cookies

In the world of baking, experimenting with recipes is often what allows us to uncover newfound love for classic treats. These sugar cookies, made without butter, are proof that flavorful desserts can accommodate different lifestyles and dietary needs without sacrificing taste. They can be a delightful treat for holiday gatherings, weekend bake sales, or a cozy evening at home.

So next time you’re looking to indulge but want to keep it butter-free, remember this sugar cookie recipe. Not only will it satisfy your sweet tooth, but it may also inspire others to explore a delicious dairy-free lifestyle.

Get ready to bake, enjoy your time in the kitchen, and share those adorable cookies with family and friends. They’re going to love you for it!