Cookies for little ones

Cookies for Little Ones: A Delicious and Fun Recipe

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 30-35 minutes
Number of Servings: Approximately 20 cookies

Cookies for little ones are a perfect choice for moments when you want to bring a touch of joy into the lives of children. This recipe is not only simple but also provides an excellent opportunity to spend quality time together in the kitchen. The cookies are soft and delicate, and the flavors of vanilla, lemon, and orange make them irresistible.

The history of these cookies is filled with family memories, being recipes passed down from generation to generation, always adapted to the preferences of the little ones. So, let’s get started!

Necessary Ingredients:

- 200 g butter or margarine (for a fluffy texture, choose quality butter)
- 180 g powdered sugar (for a sweet taste and fine texture)
- 1 egg (ideally at room temperature)
- 1 vial of vanilla essence (for an enticing aroma)
- Zest of 1 lemon (for a touch of freshness)
- Zest of 1 orange (optional, for a more intense flavor)
- 300 g flour (type 000, for softer cookies)
- 1 pinch of baking powder (to make them fluffy)

Useful:

- Mixer or whisk (for mixing the ingredients)
- Large bowl (for mixing the dough)
- Baking paper (to prevent sticking)
- Cookie cutters (if you want to make fun shapes)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the Dough: In a large bowl, add the softened butter or margarine and powdered sugar. Use the mixer to blend them well until you achieve a creamy and homogeneous mixture. This step is essential as the incorporated air will make the cookies fluffier.

2. Adding Wet Ingredients: Add the egg, vanilla essence, lemon zest, and orange zest. Continue mixing until all ingredients are evenly integrated.

3. Including Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring with a wooden spoon or by hand until you obtain a homogeneous dough. It is normal for the dough to be a bit crumbly at first.

4. Chilling the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step will help firm up the dough, making it easier to shape.

5. Shaping the Cookies: Once the dough has cooled, remove it from the refrigerator and start shaping the cookies. You can use various animal shapes or anything else that inspires you. Make sure to line the baking tray with oiled and floured baking paper before placing the cookies on it.

6. Baking the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the cookies on the tray, leaving a little space between them. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges turn golden. Each oven is different, so check them 2-3 minutes before the indicated time.

7. Cooling and Decorating: After baking, let the cookies cool for a few minutes on the tray, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, you can decorate them with melted chocolate and colorful candies for an even more attractive look and taste.

Practical Tips:

- Choose Quality Ingredients: Use good quality butter for more delicious cookies.
- Chilling the Dough: This step is not just a safety measure but helps achieve optimal texture.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you want to make gluten-free cookies, try a gluten-free flour blend, but check the label to ensure good consistency.
- Storage: Cookies keep well in a cardboard box for a few days, but to keep them soft, leave a slice of bread in the box. This will help maintain moisture.

Delicious Combinations:

These cookies are perfect to enjoy with a glass of milk or a fragrant tea. They can also be paired with vanilla ice cream or warm chocolate sauce.

Nutritional Benefits:

These cookies contain simple ingredients but are calorie-rich due to the butter and sugar. However, in moderation, they can be a delightful snack. The lemon and orange zest adds vitamin C, and the egg contributes protein.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used, but the taste will vary.

2. Can the cookies be frozen?
Yes, cookies can be frozen, but it is recommended to freeze them before baking to maintain texture.

3. What other flavors can I add?
You can experiment with almond or coconut flavors for a different touch.

In conclusion, these cookies for little ones are not just a delicious recipe but also an opportunity to create beautiful memories with loved ones. Whether you enjoy them with a glass of milk or offer them as a snack at a party, you can be sure they will bring smiles to the faces of the little ones. Enjoy!