KEWANEE WEATHER

In the kitchen with Kim: Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies


By Kim Gehling    May 9, 2026
Light and crisp, yet soft on the inside, these cookies are a keeper. [Photos by Kim Gehling]

I never get tired of trying new recipes, especially when it comes to cookies. This week I gave a completely different kind a try, and they turned out so good. Light and crisp on the outside, with a soft, chewy sweetness on the inside.

These Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies are simple in the best way, classic, comforting and the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on hand.

Cookies are always a favorite in our home. They tend to disappear faster than anything else, no matter what else is around. My family loves all kinds of cookies, but these were an instant hit.

I especially love recipes like this one that don’t try too hard. No complicated steps or fancy ingredients, just a classic, dependable cookie that turns out every time. These are light, a little crisp, and exactly the kind of sugar cookie you remember growing up.

You likely already have everything you need on hand to make a batch to share with friends and family this week.

From our kitchen to yours — enjoy!

Old-Fashioned Sugar Cookies

Ingredients

  • 2 large eggs
  • 3/4 c. canola oil
  • 1/2 lb. (2 sticks) butter, softened
  • 1 c. sugar
  • 1 c. powdered sugar
  • 1 t. pure vanilla extract
  • 4 c. flour
  • 1 t. salt
  • 1 t. baking soda
  • 1 t. cream of tartar

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F.

–In a large mixing bowl, combine eggs, canola oil, butter, granulated sugar, powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
–In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, baking soda and cream of tartar.
–Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
–Roll or scoop dough into balls and place on a parchment lined baking sheet. Flatten slightly with the bottom of a glass dipped in water and then sugar.
–Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until cookies are set but not overly browned.