Cornmeal and orange cookies

Cornmeal and Orange Cookies – A Sun-Kissed Delight

If you're looking for a cookie recipe that brings sunshine to your table, cornmeal and orange cookies are the perfect choice! These cookies have a crunchy texture, with a slightly sweet taste and a fresh citrus note that will delight you every time. Plus, the recipe is simple and quick, perfect for any time of the day. Let's get started!

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

Ingredients:

- 250 g cornmeal
- 100 g brown sugar
- 150 g all-purpose flour
- 1 pinch of salt
- 2 large eggs
- 150 g butter (at room temperature)
- Zest from 3 oranges (or to taste)

Necessary utensils:

- Large mixing bowl
- Wooden spatula or mixing knife
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Zester for citrus
- Refrigerator

Steps for preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by gathering all the ingredients. Make sure the butter is at room temperature, as it will be easier to incorporate into the dough. Grate the orange zest with a fine grater, being careful not to include the white part, which can be bitter.

Step 2: Mixing the dry ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and pinch of salt. Mix these ingredients well to ensure they are evenly distributed. The orange zest will add a fresh and vibrant flavor to the cookies, so don’t hesitate to use the zest from three large oranges if you want a more intense flavor.

Step 3: Adding the wet ingredients

After mixing the dry ingredients, add the beaten eggs and diced butter. Use a wooden spatula or knife to combine the ingredients. Knead the dough with your hands until it becomes compact and uniform. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more all-purpose flour.

Step 4: Shaping the cookies

Once you have a homogeneous dough, form small balls of dough, about the size of a walnut. Gently flatten them between your palms to form cookies. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them as they will spread during baking.

Step 5: Chilling the cookies

To achieve cookies with a perfect texture, place the tray in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This will help stabilize the dough and prevent excessive spreading during baking.

Step 6: Baking

Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Remove the tray from the refrigerator and place it in the oven. Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden at the edges. Pay attention, as every oven bakes differently.

Step 7: Cooling and serving

After the cookies have browned, remove the tray from the oven and let them cool in the tray for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to maintain the crunchy texture of the cookies.

Practical tips:

- Olive oil: Instead of butter, you can use olive oil for a healthier version. The cookies will have a slightly different texture but a wonderful taste.
- Nuts or seeds: Add chopped nuts or sunflower seeds to the dough for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Vegan version: Replace the eggs with banana or applesauce (about 1/4 cup for each egg) and the butter with a plant-based substitute.
- Spices: Experiment with cinnamon or cardamom to add a distinct flavor to the cookies.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I replace cornmeal with another ingredient?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a combination of all-purpose and whole wheat flour, but the texture will be different.

2. How can I keep the cookies fresh longer?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, but they are best in the first few days.

3. What can I serve with cornmeal and orange cookies?
These cookies pair perfectly with a cup of flavored tea or coffee, but you can also enjoy them with Greek yogurt and fresh fruit for a delicious breakfast.

Nutritional benefits

Cornmeal and orange cookies are not only delicious but also nutritious. Cornmeal is a good source of fiber, aiding in healthy digestion. Oranges provide vitamin C, essential for the immune system. Additionally, brown sugar, in moderate amounts, offers a natural sweet taste without being as processed as white sugar.

A personal note

I discovered this recipe on a rainy day when I needed something to lift my spirits. A pleasant aroma of oranges filled the kitchen, and when I tasted the first cookie, I felt as if I had brought the sunshine indoors. I encourage you to try this recipe and bring a little joy to your days with these cornmeal and orange cookies.

Enjoy every bite and don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones!