Cookies in 3 colors

Three-Color Cookies – A Lively and Savory Delight

Imagine a sweet pleasure, enveloped in vibrant aromas and colors, that delights all your senses. These three-color cookies are not just a dessert; they are a true feast for the eyes and taste buds. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply to add a touch of joy to your everyday life, these cookies are sure to impress.

A Bit of History…

Cookies, in various forms and flavors, have been part of the culinary tradition of many cultures over the years. They have evolved from simple biscuits to sophisticated treats, and today they are a popular choice for any time of the day. This three-color recipe offers not only a delicious taste but also an eye-catching presentation, perfect for serving at parties or gatherings with friends.

Ingredient Details

To prepare these colorful cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

- 125g unsalted butter – choose a good quality butter, as it will influence the final texture and flavor.
- 1 egg – the egg plays a crucial role in binding the ingredients, adding moisture and richness.
- 100g sugar – fine sugar will help achieve a smooth dough.
- 2 tablespoons milk – adds a touch of moisture and helps emulsify the ingredients.
- 200g flour – ensures a perfect texture; you can use white flour or a combination with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.
- Vanilla extract – for a pleasant aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – helps the cookies rise and become airy.
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder – to give a chocolate note to one of the dough colors.
- Natural coloring – you can use red dye or, for a healthier option, strawberry puree (about 200g strawberries, mixed with a little sugar and left overnight to extract the juice).
- Coconut – to create a decorative look and a crunchy texture.

Preparation Time

- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Resting time: 2-3 hours (in the fridge)
- Baking time: 15-20 minutes
- Total: Approximately 3 hours (including resting time)
- Servings: Approximately 24 cookies

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Prepare the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy mixing.

2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, place the butter and sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to mix well until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color.

3. Add the egg and milk: Incorporate the egg and milk into the butter and sugar mixture. Continue mixing until everything is well combined.

4. Incorporate the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing with a spatula or mixer until you achieve a smooth dough.

5. Divide the dough into 3: Once the dough is well mixed, divide it into 3 equal parts. Leave one portion plain, add cocoa to the second portion and mix well, and add strawberry puree (or red dye) to the third portion. If the dough is too wet, you can add a little flour to adjust.

6. Shape the dough: Roll each portion of dough into round balls. You can choose to shape them into cylinders or any other creative shape you desire.

7. Combine the colors: Take the 3 dough balls and carefully join them together. Gently roll them out, then brush them with egg white to help them stick together.

8. Roll in coconut: Roll the dough cylinder in shredded coconut, ensuring it is well coated.

9. Chill the dough: Wrap the dough cylinder in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for 2-3 hours. This step is essential for cutting the cookies into perfectly even slices.

10. Prepare for baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Place a baking tray lined with parchment paper on a flat surface.

11. Cut the dough: Once the dough has chilled, remove it from the fridge and cut it into slices about 1-1.5 cm thick. Place the slices on the tray, leaving enough space between them to expand during baking.

12. Bake: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, or until they are slightly golden around the edges.

13. Cool: After removing them from the oven, let the cookies cool on a wire rack. This step is important to maintain their crunchy texture.

Helpful Tips

- Customization: You can add other flavors to the dough, such as cinnamon or nutmeg, to give it a personal touch.
- Variations: Instead of strawberry puree, you can experiment with other fruits or even jam to achieve different colors and flavors.
- Serving: These cookies can be served plain, alongside a cup of tea or coffee. You can also add a chocolate glaze on top to make them even more appealing.

Nutritional Benefits

While cookies can be considered an indulgent dessert, with quality ingredients and a moderate portion, they can fit into a balanced diet. Butter provides healthy fats, and whole wheat flour can add fiber. Additionally, strawberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, you can replace part of the white flour with whole wheat flour to add more fiber.
- How can I keep the cookies fresh? Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Can I freeze the cookies? Yes, the cookies can be frozen. Make sure they are completely cooled before wrapping them in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe container.

In conclusion, these three-color cookies are a perfect choice to bring a smile to your loved ones' faces. Making them is a pleasant and creative experience, and the final result will be a treat that everyone will appreciate. Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family!