Did you see this recipe I posted? It has quite a bit of cream of tartar in it. You could probably drop this dough, the cookies just wouldn't be uniform in shape. Also might change the baking time. Perhaps the person who made the ones you remember just dropped to save time. For example, some cooks drop their biscuits instead of shaping them. I think the confectioners sugar in these would make them light.

POWDER PUFF COOKIES

2 cups flour
1 teaspoon cream of tartar
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup confectioner's sugar
1 cup butter or margarine
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Sift together flour, cream of tartar and baking soda and set aside.

In another bowl, blend confectioner's sugar and butter: Beat in egg, vanilla and walnuts if using. Add flour mixture and blend til smooth.

Shape into small balls, and flatten by pressing
crosswise on top with fork that has been dipped in confectioner's sugar.

Bake in 350 degree for 7-8
minutes.