Vera's Buttermilk Cookies

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.

Cream together margarine, ⅔ cup sugar, and Equal in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Beat in the large egg and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine all-purpose flour, dry buttermilk, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl and whisk together.

Alternate adding the dry ingredients and room temperature water to the margarine mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Place the ¼ cup sugar in a shallow bowl. Drop spoonfuls of dough into the sugar, coat lightly, and place on prepared baking sheets about 2 inches apart.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are set but centers are still soft and slightly tender.

Cool on baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.