Cookies with nuts and raisins

Nut and Raisin Cookies - a delicious and comforting snack

In this recipe, we will discover together how to prepare nut and raisin cookies, a perfect choice for a sweet snack or to accompany a cup of fragrant tea. These cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make, and their aroma will fill your home with an irresistible scent.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooling time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Number of servings: 20 cookies

Essential ingredients:
- 200 g butter (at room temperature)
- 120 g powdered sugar
- 1 egg
- 200 g nuts (ground)
- 100 g raisins (you can also use golden raisins for a milder taste)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 300-350 g flour (wheat flour is ideal, but you can also try a whole grain version)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or rum extract, if you prefer)

Nutritional benefits:
Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. Raisins add not only sweetness but also fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These cookies are a healthier option compared to many other desserts, being rich in nutrients and ideal for satisfying a sweet craving.

The story of the recipe:
Nut and raisin cookies have a long history in culinary culture, often associated with moments of celebration and family gatherings. Their sweet taste and crunchy texture make them favorites for many, and each bite evokes pleasant memories.

Step by step:
1. Preparing the butter: Start by taking the butter out of the fridge and letting it reach room temperature. It will be easier to mix. Place it in a large bowl and add the powdered sugar and a pinch of salt. Use an electric mixer to combine the ingredients until you obtain a fluffy and creamy mixture.

2. Adding the egg: Incorporate the egg into the butter and sugar mixture, mixing until everything is homogeneous. This will add moisture and help bind the ingredients.

3. Including the nuts: Chop the nuts in a food processor or using a traditional method, with a bowl and pestle. Add the ground nuts to the butter and egg mixture, mixing well.

4. Raisins and dry ingredients: Add the raisins, baking powder, and sifted flour gradually. Start with 300 g of flour and add more if necessary to obtain a homogeneous, slightly sticky dough.

5. Aroma: Don't forget the vanilla extract! Add it at the end to enhance the aroma of the cookies.

6. Chilling the dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes. This step is essential as it helps the dough firm up, making it easier to handle.

7. Shaping the cookies: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Remove the dough from the fridge and break off small pieces. Shape them into balls or, for a more creative look, use cookie cutters.

8. Baking: Place the dough balls on the tray, leaving space between them as they will spread during baking. Put the tray in the oven and let the cookies bake for 15-20 minutes, or until they become golden and small cracks appear on their surface.

9. Cooling and serving: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a rack. Once cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant look.

10. Storing: I recommend keeping the cookies in a lidded container to maintain their freshness. They will be good for a few days, but they are so delicious that they might not last long!

Serving suggestions:
These cookies pair perfectly with a cup of black tea or a creamy cappuccino. You can serve them at a gathering with friends or simply indulge in a delicious snack during the day.

Interesting variations:
If you want to add a touch of originality, you can try adding chopped dark or white chocolate to the dough. You can also replace the raisins with dried cranberries or pieces of dried apricots for a different flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use reduced-fat butter? - It is recommended to use regular butter for optimal flavor, but you can experiment with reduced-fat butter.
2. What can I use instead of nuts? - You can substitute nuts with hazelnuts or almonds, depending on your preferences.
3. How can I make the cookies less sweet? - You can reduce the amount of powdered sugar or use a natural sweetener.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking and enjoy these nut and raisin cookies, which will bring a touch of warmth and joy to every day. Enjoy your meal!