These classic sand tarts are a must-have during the holiday season. Made with a delicate buttery dough and topped with cinnamon sugar, these cookies are perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this timeless recipe that has been passed down for generations.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup cinnamon sugar (for coating)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and beat well.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Using cookie cutters, cut out desired shapes and place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Sprinkle each cookie generously with cinnamon sugar.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly golden around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Repeat with the remaining dough.
- Once completely cooled, store the sand tarts in an airtight container to maintain their crispness.
Interesting Facts
Sand tarts are often linked to Pennsylvania Dutch tradition and are a staple during Christmas celebrations.
The name 'sand tarts' comes from the sandy texture of the cookie dough.
Sand tarts can be decorated with colored sugars or icing for a festive touch.