Lemon Snaps (1881)

This post was originally published in the 1800’s Housewife daily newsletter, on January 22, 2023. Not on the mailing list? You can join here to receive the daily recipe and cooking notes straight to your email.

Today’s recipe comes from Practical Housekeeping, published in 1881, by the Buckeye Publishing Company.

My dear Hattie –

Received your letter this week, and smiled to hear you so warmly remember the cookies I served, during your last visit to us. Was that really two months ago already?

With four little ones, I am often making cookies–usually jumbles. But since you mention the taste of lemon, I am sure it is Lemon Snaps that you remember so fondly. I am happy to share it with you, and have copied out the recipe, which you will find enclosed.

These are easy to make and keep well. Have your oven very hot, and be cautious not to add too much flour. I find that one cup plus two tablespoons, and a very little more for rolling, is enough. One tea-spoon lemon essence flavors them nicely.

This is from Practical Housekeeping, which I use more than probably any other cook book.

We roasted the last of the turkeys from last summer’s hatchings today. I had intended to save him for when Alice comes to visit next month, but the big fellow had chased poor Thomas so many times lately, that I decided that enough was enough. So we all enjoyed the special treat of an excellent turkey dinner. Thomas most of all, I think.

How exciting to read in your letter about your gardening plans for spring, now that you are at last settled in your own home and yard. Of course I would be more than happy to offer whatever little suggestions and tips may be helpful, as you make your plans.

Enclose a sketch with the layout of the house and yards in your next letter if you can, and I will be glad to help.

Ever your affectionate cousin,
Florence Nelson

MODERN BAKING NOTES:
Roll the dough thin, like pie crust–about ⅛ inch.
Bake on un-greased tins, at 420°, until golden brown around the edges.
5-6 minutes should do it!

Below is a printable version of the recipe. Hope you enjoy it! ~ Anna

📖 Recipe