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1776-1800 - American home bakers and holiday traditions.
Sugar cookies are a timeless American holiday treat known for their crisp edges and tender interiors. Often decorated with colored sugar or icing, they hold a special place in Christmas celebrations and beyond, evolving over centuries to suit home bakers and commercial baking alike.
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Difficulty
Easy
Prep time
15 minutes
Cook time
10 minutes
Total time
25 minutes
Servings
24 cookies
Region
Pennsylvania German and New England commemorative baking kitchens
Era introduced
1776-1800
Introduced by
American home bakers and holiday traditions.
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Sugar cookies have origins in European baking traditions but became deeply embedded in American holiday festivities, especially Christmas. Their simple dough can be rolled out, cut into shapes, and decorated, making them a favorite for home bakers and children. The recipe embodies the American spirit of holiday sharing and creativity, with countless family variations passed down through generations.
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