Biscuits for tea

Tea Cookies – Delicious and Fragrant Recipe

When it comes to simple yet flavorful treats, tea cookies are among the most beloved choices. These crunchy cookies are perfect for enjoying alongside a cup of aromatic tea, but they can also be the ideal snack for a sweet break during the day. With a blend of flavors and textures, this recipe transforms into a delightful culinary experience that will bring a smile to anyone who tastes them.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Rest time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 30 cookies

Necessary ingredients:

- 250 g margarine (at room temperature)
- 2 eggs
- 200 g sugar (preferably brown sugar for a deeper taste)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 cup of milk (approximately 250 ml)
- 200 g fruit muesli (make sure it's of good quality)
- 150 g nuts (coarsely chopped)
- 300 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- A pinch of ground ginger
- 2 cardamom pods (optional, just the seeds)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by bringing the margarine to room temperature. This step is essential for achieving an even texture in the dough. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for easier integration.

2. Beat the eggs and margarine: In a large bowl, add the margarine and eggs. Use an electric mixer or a spatula to combine them well until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture.

3. Add the flavors: In the same mixture, incorporate the sugar and vanilla sugar. Mix well, then add the cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cardamom seeds. These spices will add an irresistible aroma to your cookies.

4. Including the dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet composition, stirring gently to avoid lumps.

5. Including the muesli and nuts: Once the flour is well integrated, add the muesli and nuts. These ingredients not only add a crunchy texture but also a variety of vitamins and minerals.

6. Binding the dough: Start adding the milk gradually, stirring continuously. The dough should be moist but not sticky. If it's too dry, you can add a little more milk; if it's too sticky, add a little more flour.

7. Resting the dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step will help the cookies retain their shape and become crunchier after baking.

8. Shaping the cookies: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). After the dough has chilled, remove it and form balls the size of walnuts. Dust your palms with flour to prevent the dough from sticking. Gently flatten each ball between your palms.

9. Baking the cookies: Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to expand. Bake for 20 minutes, then flip them over and bake for another 5 minutes to brown evenly.

10. Cooling: Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This will help maintain their crunchy texture.

Serving suggestions:
These cookies are wonderful alongside a cup of aromatic tea or freshly brewed coffee. You can serve them plain or pair them with fruit jam or cream cheese. For an elegant touch, you can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top before serving.

Interesting variations:
To personalize the recipe, you can add dried fruits (like raisins or dried apricots), dark chocolate, or hazelnuts. You can also replace margarine with butter for a richer taste and texture.

Nutritional benefits:
These cookies are an excellent source of fiber thanks to the muesli and nuts, contributing to healthy digestion. The spices used not only enhance the flavor but also provide health benefits, such as the anti-inflammatory properties of ginger and cinnamon.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use oil instead of margarine?
Yes, you can use coconut oil or olive oil, but the texture will be different. Margarine or butter gives the cookies a lighter texture.

2. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, you can freeze the unbaked cookies. Shape them, place them on a tray, and freeze for 1-2 hours, then store them in an airtight bag. When you want to bake them, just take them out and bake directly from the freezer.

3. How long do the cookies last?
The cookies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for about a week.

In conclusion, this tea cookie recipe is not only easy to make but also full of flavors that will delight your senses. So put on your apron and enjoy cooking! Bon appétit!