Simple vanilla and cocoa cookies

To create delicious citrus-flavored cookies with a hint of cocoa, start by preparing the necessary ingredients. Make sure you have 250 grams of soft butter, 200 grams of sugar, 2 large eggs, 150 grams of sour cream, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of lemon extract, 500 grams of flour, 1 packet of baking powder, and optionally, 30 grams of cocoa for the chocolate version. Another important ingredient is your creativity, which will shine in the final decoration of the cookies.

The first step is to preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius, so it will be ready when your cookies are ready to bake. In a large bowl, cream the butter with the sugar until you obtain a fluffy and homogeneous mixture. This step is crucial, as the incorporated air will make the cookies fluffier. Gradually add the eggs, mixing well after each addition to ensure even integration.

Once the eggs are fully incorporated, add the sour cream and the flavors – the vanilla and lemon extracts. Mix gently until you have a homogeneous mixture. In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Sifting the flour before adding it to the wet mixture is a secret to prevent lumps and achieve a perfect texture.

Begin to incorporate the flour using a spatula or a wooden spoon, mixing gently to avoid losing air from the mixture. If you want to create a cocoa version, divide the dough into two and add the cocoa to one of the portions, mixing well.

After obtaining the dough, roll it out on a floured surface using a rolling pin until it reaches a thickness of about 5 mm. Use cookie cutters of various sizes to cut out the cookies. You can choose classic shapes, such as circles or stars, or more playful shapes, depending on the occasion.

Once you have cut out all the cookies, place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Before baking them, let your imagination run wild and decorate them with colored lemon icing, using a piping bag with a tip for an elegant look. You can also add sprinkles or crushed nuts for an extra texture and flavor.

Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until they become slightly golden around the edges. After removing them from the oven, let them cool on a rack. These cookies are perfect to be enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, providing a moment of indulgence for both you and your loved ones. Enjoy!