Classic Old Fashioned Cookies: A Sweet Tradition

Time & Yield:

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 10-12 minutes
• Total time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: 24 cookies (depending on size)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional for added flavor)
• ½ cup old-fashioned rolled oats (optional, but adds a nice texture)
• ½ cup chopped nuts (optional, such as walnuts or pecans or chocolate chips)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar:
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer or by hand with a wooden spoon.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla:
   Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. Add Optional Ingredients:
   Stir in oats and chopped nuts if you’re adding them for extra texture and flavor.
6. Shape the Dough:
   Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
7. Bake the Cookies:
   Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden but the centers are still soft.
8. Cool and Serve:
   Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy!