Grandma’s Irish Sugar Cookies

Name: Grandma’s Irish Sugar Cookies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus additional for rolling); 1/2 cup powdered sugar (sifted if lumpy); 1 large egg (room temperature); 1/2 cup butter (softened); 1/2 cup vegetable oil (at room temperature); 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and leveled); 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp cream of tartar

Grandma’s Irish sugar cookies, beautifully decorated and freshly baked.

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Creamy, tender, and just the right amount of sweet, Grandma’s Irish Sugar Cookies are the kind of treat that makes the whole kitchen smell like cozy memories. These cookies bake up soft in the middle with delicate, lightly golden edges and a delightful sugar-crisp exterior. Fun fact: old family cookie recipes often used both granulated and powdered sugar to create a tender crumb and a subtle crunch — a small trick that makes a big difference.

This recipe is special because it’s simple, quick to prepare, and perfect for family baking sessions. If you love classic holiday cookies, you might also enjoy the festive twist in this Candy Cane Sugar Cookies recipe that plays nicely with seasonal flavors Candy Cane Sugar Cookies. Read on and you’ll see why these cookies become a weekly favorite and a go-to for cookie exchanges.

What is Grandma’s Irish Sugar Cookies?

Why call them Grandma’s Irish Sugar Cookies? Who knows — maybe Grandma added a pinch of charm and a twirl of luck to every batch. Could it be the comforting, old-fashioned texture or the simple, reliable ingredients that whisper “home”? Maybe it’s because every bite tastes like a story told over tea. And let’s be honest, haven’t we all heard that “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” Whether that’s true or not, these cookies are bound to win affection.

Legend (or family gossip) says the name came from a great-grandmother who kept her recipe in the back of a worn cookbook with a shamrock tucked inside. Try the recipe and decide for yourself — you’ll be part of the story in no time.

Why You’ll Love This

These cookies are irresistible for three big reasons. First, they deliver perfect texture: soft and tender inside with a slightly crisp sugared outside that gives each bite contrast. Second, making them at home saves money — pantry staples like butter, flour, and sugar are inexpensive and stretch into dozens of cookies. Third, the simple flavor profile (butter, vanilla, and a hint of cream of tartar) elevates the sugar coating and makes them ideal for decorating or enjoying plain.

If you enjoy soft sugar cookies, try branching out to our Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies for a fruity variation Soft and Chewy Raspberry Sugar Cookies. Ready to bake? These are quick, family-friendly, and a lovely treat any day of the week.

How to Make:

Quick Overview

This recipe is straightforward and forgiving, perfect for cooks of any skill level. The dough comes together easily, bakes in a short time, and the result is a cookie with tender interior and a sparkling sugar exterior. Standout elements: a soft, buttery bite and slightly crackled top thanks to the sugar roll. Prep time: about 15 minutes. Bake time: 10 to 12 minutes. Total time: roughly 30 minutes.

Ingredients

1/2 cup granulated sugar plus additional for rolling — room temperature if needed
1/2 cup powdered sugar — sifted if lumpy
1 egg — large, room temperature
1/2 cup butter — softened
1/2 cup vegetable oil — at room temperature
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour — spooned and leveled
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cream of tartar

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and helps cookies bake evenly.
In a large bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, powdered sugar, butter, and vegetable oil until light and fluffy. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 2 to 3 minutes. Scrape the bowl as needed.
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Mix just until combined — overbeating can change texture.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cream of tartar. This ensures even distribution of leavening.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Stop mixing when no streaks of flour remain. The dough should hold together but remain soft.
Roll the dough into 1-inch balls and coat each ball in granulated sugar. Use additional sugar for a sparkly finish.
Place the dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them 2 inches apart to allow spreading.
Gently flatten each cookie slightly before baking so they bake evenly and get that classic shape.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Watch closely near the end to avoid overbaking — centers should stay soft.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Grandma’s Irish Sugar Cookies

What to Serve With

Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea or a mug of hot chocolate for a comforting snack. They also work well alongside fresh fruit or a simple fruit compote to cut the sweetness. For gatherings, serve with a platter of assorted cookies and a pot of freshly brewed coffee to balance flavors. If you want an indulgent pairing, try them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or lightly whipped cream.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Ingredient substitutions: You can swap half the butter for more oil if you prefer a slightly chewier texture, but don’t replace all the butter — it adds flavor and structure.
Timing adjustments: Chill the dough 10 minutes if your kitchen is warm; this helps maintain shape.
Flavor enhancements: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright note or a pinch of cinnamon for warmth.
Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t overmix once the flour is added; that develops gluten and makes cookies tough. Also, avoid overbaking — remove while centers are still soft.
Technique tip: Rolling the balls in granulated sugar before baking gives a pretty crackled top and a little crunch.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If stacking, place a sheet of parchment between layers to prevent sticking. To freeze, arrange baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To refresh after freezing, thaw at room temperature and warm in a 300°F oven for 5 minutes for that just-baked feel.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes. You can refrigerate the formed dough balls for up to 24 hours or freeze them raw for up to 3 months; bake from chilled or frozen, adding a minute or two to bake time if needed.

Can I use margarine instead of butter?
You can, but butter provides better flavor. Margarine may alter texture and taste slightly.

Why does this recipe call for both granulated and powdered sugar?
Granulated sugar adds crunch and structure, while powdered sugar creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. Together they balance chew and softness.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum. Texture may vary slightly.

How do I get the cookies perfectly round and evenly spread?
Use a cookie scoop for uniform balls, chill briefly if dough is soft, and space cookies 2 inches apart. Slightly flatten before baking for even shape.

Conclusion

These Grandma’s Irish Sugar Cookies are an easy, comforting classic that’s perfect for family baking, cookie swaps, or a cozy afternoon treat. With simple pantry ingredients and a quick bake time, they’re an economical and crowd-pleasing choice that still feels special. If you’d like to compare a version from a different family kitchen, take a look at this traditional take on the recipe at Grandma’s Irish Sugar Cookies – AngelaLynne. Give these cookies a try, share them with friends, and enjoy the warm smiles they bring.