Cookies with raisins

Fluffy Raisin Cookies - a delicious and simple recipe

If you're looking for a cookie recipe that will delight your taste buds, you've come to the right place! Raisin cookies are not only easy to make but also incredibly aromatic, offering a perfect combination of the sweetness of raisins and the perfect texture of the dough. These cookies are ideal for a quick snack, a sweet dessert, or even as a gift for loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 20 cookies

Necessary ingredients:

- 140 g wheat flour (type 000)
- 100 g raisins (preferably slightly hydrated in warm water)
- 100 g soft butter (make sure it's at room temperature)
- 100 g powdered sugar (you can also use brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or 1 vanilla pod for an authentic taste)

A bit of history:
Cookies have a long history, being prepared for thousands of years in various forms and variations. These small sweet delights have evolved over time, adapting to cultural preferences and available ingredients. Traditionally, cookies were used as a way to preserve food, but today they are often associated with moments of indulgence and joy.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Make sure the butter is soft so it mixes easily with the sugar. If it's too hard, you can leave it at room temperature for 30 minutes or warm it slightly in the microwave, but be careful not to melt it.

2. Mixing butter and sugar:
In a large bowl, add the soft butter and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer or a spatula to combine them until you achieve a creamy and smooth mixture. This is the moment to add the vanilla extract to enhance the aroma.

3. Adding the eggs:
Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This step is essential for achieving a perfectly aerated dough.

4. Incorporating the flour:
Sift the flour to avoid lumps. Gradually add the flour, mixing gently with a spatula. It is important not to overmix, as the cookies may become tough.

5. Adding the raisins:
Add the hydrated raisins and mix gently to distribute them evenly in the dough. If you wish, you can also add a bit of cinnamon for extra flavor.

6. Shaping the cookies:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Use an ice cream scoop or two spoons to take dough and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Leave enough space between the cookies, as they will rise during baking.

7. Baking:
Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 10 minutes, until they are slightly golden around the edges. Don't worry if they seem soft at first; they will harden as they cool.

8. Cooling and dusting:
After removing them from the oven, let them cool for a few minutes on the tray, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once they are completely cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar for a festive look.

Serving suggestions:
Raisin cookies are delicious both plain and accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee. You can serve them alongside vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.

Interesting variations:
- Instead of raisins, you can use dried cranberries or dark chocolate for a more intense flavor.
- Add chopped nuts or hazelnuts for an extra crunch.
- Substitute part of the flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.

Nutritional information:
Raisin cookies are a good source of carbohydrates and fiber, thanks to the raisins. Additionally, butter provides healthy fats and vitamins. Each cookie contains approximately 80 calories, but this number may vary depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other dried fruits?
Absolutely! You can replace the raisins with any other type of dried fruit, such as apricots or figs.

2. How can I keep the cookies fresh?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for a few days.

3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes! Cookies can be frozen. Place them in a freezer bag and you can keep them for up to 3 months. When you want to serve them, let them thaw at room temperature.

4. What other recipes can I try?
If you like cookies, I also recommend the chocolate chip cookie recipe or oatmeal cookies. These are just as delicious and easy to make!

And thus, you have fluffy raisin cookies, perfect for any occasion! Don't forget to enjoy every bite and share this simple and delicious recipe with your loved ones. Cooking is an art, and every recipe is a story worth telling!