Cocoa and nut biscuits

Delicious Cocoa and Nut Cookies – A Perfect Indulgence

Who doesn't love a good dessert that brings a touch of joy to every day? These cocoa and nut cookies are more than just a simple recipe – they are a culinary experience that will delight your senses. Easy to make and rich in flavor, these cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you want to impress guests or simply treat yourself.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: About 20 cookies

Ingredients

- 1 cup of flour
- 1/3 cup of cocoa powder
- 115 g of softened butter (at room temperature)
- 2/3 cup of sugar
- 1 egg (yolk) + 1 egg white
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons of milk
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 200 g of nuts (you can use walnuts, pecans, or hazelnuts)

Required Utensils

- A large bowl
- A spatula or wooden spoon
- An ice cream scoop (for shaping the cookies)
- A rolling pin (for crushing the nuts)
- A baking tray
- Parchment paper

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the butter is softened for easier incorporation.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. These ingredients will form the base of your cookies, with the cocoa providing a rich color and deep flavor.

3. Creaming the butter and sugar: In another bowl, cream the butter with the sugar using a spatula or mixer until the mixture is fluffy and light in color. This step is essential for achieving soft cookies.

4. Adding the wet ingredients: Add the egg yolk, milk, and vanilla to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully integrated. It's important for each ingredient to combine evenly for a uniform final result.

5. Incorporating the dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour and cocoa mixture using the spatula to avoid lumps. Mix gently until no dry flour is visible. You'll notice the dough becomes soft and sticky.

6. Chilling the dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour. This step will make the dough easier to shape and prevent the cookies from spreading while baking.

7. Preparing the nuts: Meanwhile, crush the nuts using a rolling pin. Don't make them too fine; leave them in small pieces for a pleasant texture in the cookies. The nuts add extra flavor and crunch.

8. Preparing to bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper. This will help prevent the cookies from sticking.

9. Shaping the cookies: Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Using the ice cream scoop, form balls of dough and dip them in the lightly beaten egg white, then roll them in the crushed nuts. This step will not only give the cookies a beautiful appearance but will also add a delicious taste.

10. Baking: Place the balls on the prepared tray, leaving enough space between them as they will spread while baking. Gently flatten them with your palm and bake for 15 minutes. The cookies will be soft in the middle, but don't worry – that's how they should be!

11. Cooling: After baking, let the cookies cool on the tray for a few minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack. This step is essential to allow them to become fluffy and not crumble.

Serving and Suggestions

These cookies are delicious both warm and at room temperature. You can serve them plain or with a light chocolate glaze for an extra touch of elegance. They also pair wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making them the perfect dessert for a relaxing afternoon.

Tips and Variations

- Flavored cocoa: You can experiment with different types of cocoa to achieve unique flavors. Dark cocoa, for instance, will add a more intense note.
- Mixed nuts: Instead of just one type of nut, you can use a mix to enhance the texture and flavor.
- Adding chocolate: If you're a chocolate lover, feel free to add chocolate chips to the dough for even more decadent cookies.

Nutritional Benefits

These cocoa and nut cookies are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to heart health, and cocoa contains antioxidants that can improve overall health. Although they are calorie-dense, when consumed in moderation, they can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I substitute butter with margarine? Yes, you can use margarine, but the taste may be slightly different.
2. Can the cookies be frozen? Yes, these cookies can be frozen. Place them in an airtight container, and they can be kept for up to 3 months.
3. Can I add other ingredients? Absolutely! You can add dried fruits or coconut flakes for extra texture.

These cocoa and nut cookies are truly a treat worth trying. Not only are they easy to make, but each bite will bring a smile to your face. So, embark on this culinary adventure and enjoy these wonderful cookies! Enjoy!