There’s something timeless and comforting about a cookie that feels like it’s been passed down through generations. Washboard Cookies are exactly that kind of treasure—simple, sweet, and steeped in tradition. With their signature ridged tops and buttery, crumbly texture, these cookies are a beloved classic in many Midwestern kitchens. They’re the kind of treat your grandmother might have served warm with a glass of milk or left waiting in a tin for visiting family.
The name “Washboard” comes from the rustic pattern gently pressed into the dough before baking—an endearing detail that adds both texture and charm. Whether you’re baking a batch to share during a cozy afternoon tea or setting them out for guests during the holidays, these cookies never fail to bring warmth and nostalgia to the table.
Preparation Time
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Prep Time: 15 minutes
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Bake Time: 12–15 minutes
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Cooling Time: 10 minutes
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Total Time: ~35–40 minutes
Ingredients
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon baking powder
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¼ teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
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Cream the softened butter and sugar together in a large bowl until light and fluffy.
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Add the vanilla extract and milk, and mix until fully incorporated.
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
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Gradually blend the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms.
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Roll the dough into 1-inch balls, then shape into small logs (about 2 inches long).
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Place each log on the prepared baking sheet and use the tines of a fork to gently press a washboard pattern into the tops.
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Bake for 12–15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
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Cool on a wire rack and enjoy once they’re set and slightly crisp.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are a match made in heaven with a steaming mug of coffee or herbal tea. You can also serve them with a cold glass of milk, or get creative with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. Their delicate texture and nostalgic charm make them ideal for lunchboxes, dessert trays, or quiet moments on the porch.
Washboard Cookies may be simple in ingredients, but they’re rich in tradition and flavor. Their charming pattern and tender crumb bring back memories of slower days and homemade goodness. Whether you’re reviving a family favorite or discovering them for the first time, these cookies are sure to become a cherished part of your baking collection. Share them, gift them, or savor them with a quiet cup of tea—they’re a timeless treat that never goes out of style.