Grammie’s Sweet Milk Cookies

Grammie’s Sweet Milk Cookies are the kind of old-fashioned treat that instantly transports you to a warm kitchen filled with the scent of sugar and nutmeg. Soft in the center, delicately crisp around the edges, and finished with a sparkling sugar topping, these cookies strike the perfect balance between simplicity and comfort.

If you’re looking for a nostalgic cookie recipe that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough for gatherings, this one checks every box. Made with sweetened condensed milk for richness and tenderness, these cookies have a uniquely smooth texture that sets them apart from classic sugar cookies. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a weekend treat, or simply to recreate a childhood favorite, this recipe delivers timeless flavor with dependable results.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy Preparation – No complicated techniques or special equipment required.
• Simple Pantry Ingredients – Everything is likely already in your kitchen.
• Soft, Tender Texture – The sweetened condensed milk adds moisture and a delicate crumb.
• Perfect for Holidays & Family Gatherings – A nostalgic recipe that appeals to all ages.
• Lightly Spiced Flavor – A hint of nutmeg enhances the sweetness without overpowering it.
• Crowd-Pleaser Appeal – The sparkling sugar coating adds visual charm and subtle crunch.

What truly makes Grammie’s Sweet Milk Cookies stand out is their old-fashioned method: rolling the dough thicker than most sugar cookies. This creates a soft, almost cake-like interior with just the right golden finish. Every bite feels homemade in the best possible way.

Ingredients Needed

Below is everything you’ll need to make these classic sweet milk cookies.

For the Cookie Dough

• 1 large egg, room temperature – Helps bind the ingredients and adds structure.
• 1 cup white granulated sugar – Provides sweetness and contributes to a tender crumb.
• ½ cup shortening – Creates a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. (You may substitute half with butter for added flavor if desired.)
• ¾ cup sweetened condensed milk – Adds richness and moisture while enhancing sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Ensures proper rise and light texture.
• 2 teaspoons cream of tartar – Adds subtle tang and contributes to softness.
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – A gentle spice that complements the sweetness beautifully.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances flavors and prevents the cookies from tasting flat.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (approximately) – Provides structure; measure accurately for best results.

For Finishing

• ⅓ cup granulated sugar – For sprinkling on top before baking to create a delicate crunch and sparkle.

How to Make Grammie’s Sweet Milk Cookies

Preparation Note

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before starting the final shaping process. Line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking and promote even browning.

1. Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg and sugar together until pale and slightly fluffy. This step dissolves the sugar and creates a smoother cookie texture.

Add the shortening and continue mixing until creamy. The mixture should look smooth and uniform without visible lumps.

Pour in the sweetened condensed milk and mix thoroughly. The batter will appear glossy and slightly thick — this richness is what gives the cookies their signature softness.

2. Add Leavening and Flavor

Sprinkle in the baking soda, cream of tartar, nutmeg, and salt. Stir until evenly distributed.

Cream of tartar not only stabilizes the dough but also contributes to a tender crumb. Nutmeg adds warmth without overwhelming the sweetness.

3. Incorporate the Flour

Gradually add the flour, about half a cup at a time, stirring gently after each addition.

You are aiming for a soft but rollable dough. The dough should hold together without being sticky. If necessary, add a small amount of additional flour, but avoid overloading it — too much flour can result in dense cookies.

4. Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour your work surface. Roll the dough to approximately ½ inch thickness.

Rolling the dough thicker than typical sugar cookies ensures a soft, slightly cake-like interior. Keep the thickness even so the cookies bake uniformly.

5. Cut and Decorate

Use a round biscuit cutter to cut out circles. Transfer them to the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Sprinkle each cookie generously with granulated sugar. This creates a lightly crisp, sparkling top once baked.

6. Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes.

The cookies should be set and lightly golden around the edges but still pale on top. Avoid overbaking — they will firm up as they cool.

7. Cool Properly

Allow the cookies to rest on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

This brief cooling period helps them stabilize and prevents breakage.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

• Serve slightly warm with a glass of milk or hot tea.
• Arrange on a vintage-style platter for a nostalgic presentation.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert sandwich.
• Dust lightly with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

These cookies shine at holiday cookie exchanges, family gatherings, and afternoon coffee breaks.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezing Baked Cookies: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
• Freezing Dough: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator before rolling.

To refresh, warm in a 300°F oven for 3–4 minutes.

Helpful Notes

• If the dough feels sticky, chill it for 20–30 minutes before rolling.
• Substitute half the shortening with butter for added flavor while maintaining softness.
• Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth.
• For festive occasions, roll the edges in colored sugar instead of white.
• Measure flour using the spoon-and-level method to prevent excess density.

Small details like even rolling and careful baking time make a noticeable difference in texture.

Conclusion

Grammie’s Sweet Milk Cookies are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special. Their soft interior, subtle nutmeg warmth, and sparkling sugar topping make them a timeless classic. Unlike standard sugar cookies, the addition of sweetened condensed milk creates a uniquely tender texture that feels rich without being heavy.

Whether you’re baking to relive cherished memories or introducing this old-fashioned favorite to a new generation, this recipe is dependable, comforting, and delicious.

If you tried this recipe, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Please leave a comment below and share your experience. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your eautiful cookies on Pinterest or Facebook.

Did you add a personal twist? Maybe extra spice or a vanilla glaze? Let us know what variation you loved most!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I substitute butter for shortening?

Yes. You can replace half or all of the shortening with unsalted butter. Keep in mind that butter may create slightly crisper edges.

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes. Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for best results.

Why are my cookies too dense?

This usually happens from adding too much flour. Measure carefully and avoid packing flour into the measuring cup.

Can I add vanilla extract?

Absolutely. Adding 1 teaspoon of vanilla enhances flavor and complements the nutmeg.

How thick should I roll the dough?

Approximately ½ inch thick. This ensures a soft, tender interior once baked.

Can I freeze the dough for later?

Yes. Wrap the dough tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before rolling.

How do I know when they’re done baking?

Look for lightly golden edges and a set surface. They should remain pale on top for best texture.