Monday Memories: Secret Ingredients

Posted Dec 15 2014 in , , ,

IMG_0268Old family recipes are the best. I remember my Grandpa’s Rigatoni sauce, my Nonnie’s chocolate cake recipe and a few others. But since it’s the holidays, I have to mention our family Christmas Cookie recipe. I remember my mom pulling out an old cookbook, it’s pages slightly stained with vanilla, and turning to a page with a woman’s picture on it. The cookie recipe has Almond Extract in the cookie dough and in the frosting. It used Crisco, too. 

So yummy! I’m not sure what it is about the old recipes and Christmas, but I don’t want newfangled anything. I want tradition. So, what’s the secret ingredient in your family’s recipe :-)? I’d love to know!

I made the cookies this year. They didn’t turn out as well because my neices and nephews weren’t here to do the decorating, but they tasted good anyway! 

Have a Yummy and Merry Christmas!

Be the first to comment

  1. Louise B says:

    So, is the cookie recipe a deep dark family secret? Or can it be shared?

    1. Robin Perini says:

      Well, Louise…you twisted my arm. Here it is. 🙂

      SURE THING SUGAR COOKIES

      1 c. shortening
      4 c. flour
      1/2 c. milk
      2 eggs
      1 1/2 c. sugar
      2 tsp. soda
      1/2 tsp. salt
      1/2 tsp. almond flavoring
      Cut shortening into flour with a fork until the mixture is the consistency
      of small peas and corn meal. Combine remaining ingredients and mix
      with flour. Roll dough to 1/8-inch thickness. Cut into various shapes
      with cookie cutters. Bake at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes or until lightly browned on edges.

      Decorating Icing
      1 lb Bag Powdered Sugar
      1/2 tsp Almond Flavoring
      1/4 c. Cold Water
      1/2 c. + 2 Tbsp Crisco (must be Crisco)
      1/2 tsp salt

      Use full strength for roses, etc. Dilute (About 1-1/2 tsp.) to frost. Beat a minimum of 10 minutes ( no less). Heat spatula in hot water to smooth icing. Double recipe for cakes.

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