Crispy biscuits

Crispy Cookie Recipe: A Sweet and Flavorful Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-45 minutes
Total time: 45-60 minutes
Number of servings: approx. 20 cookies

Crispy cookies are a perfect choice for quick snacks, guests, or simply to indulge in during the afternoon. This simple recipe combines traditional flavors with a crispy texture, creating a delight that will please any palate.

Ingredients:
- 250 g butter (ideally at room temperature)
- 200 g sugar (about one cup)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 vanilla extracts (for an intense flavor)
- Flour (as needed, about 400-500 g)
- Spices of choice (optional: cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger for an extra flavor)

Ingredient details:
- Butter: Choose a high-quality butter with a fat content of 80% or more. This will give the cookies a richer texture and a more intense flavor.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar is the right choice, but you can experiment with brown sugar for a caramel flavor.
- Eggs: Make sure the eggs are fresh, as they contribute to the texture of the cookies.
- Flour: Wheat flour is standard, but you can use whole wheat flour or a combination with almond flour for healthier cookies.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help with better homogenization of the mixture.

2. Making the cream: In a large bowl, combine the sugar with the softened butter. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to mix well until the mixture becomes a light and creamy foam. This process is crucial, as the incorporated air will make the cookies fluffier.

3. Adding the eggs and flavors: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, incorporate the vanilla sugar and vanilla extracts. Continue mixing until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

4. Including the flour: Start adding the flour gradually, one cup at a time, mixing with a spatula or with the mixer on low speed. Continue adding flour until you achieve a consistent dough that easily pulls away from the sides of the bowl. You may not need all the flour, so add it gradually and stop when you have reached the desired consistency.

5. Chilling the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about an hour. This will make it easier to shape and prevent the cookies from spreading during baking.

6. Shaping the cookies: After the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 5 mm. Use cookie cutters or a knife to cut the cookies into the desired sizes. If you wish, you can decorate the cookies with granulated sugar before baking.

7. Baking the cookies: Preheat the oven to 180°C (or 160°C for a convection oven). Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-45 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy at the edges. Check them occasionally, as baking time may vary depending on the thickness of the cookies.

8. Cooling: Once done, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This will allow air circulation and prevent moisture.

Serving and suggestions:
Crispy cookies can be served with a glass of cold milk or with fruit jams for a delicious flavor combination. Another tasty idea is to pair them with aromatic coffee or tea. These cookies will also make a wonderful gift for loved ones if beautifully packaged!

Possible variations:
- Chocolate cookies: Add dark or white chocolate chips to the dough for a burst of sweetness.
- Nut cookies: Incorporate chopped nuts or almonds for an extra crunch.
- Dried fruit cookies: Raisins or dried cranberries can add a fruity and interesting note.

Nutritional benefits:
These cookies are a quick source of energy and can be adapted by adding healthier ingredients, such as whole wheat flour or substituting sugar with its natural alternative, like honey or maple syrup.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?: While you can use margarine, the flavor of the cookies will not be as rich. Butter provides a unique flavor.
- What should I do if the dough is too sticky?: Add a little flour, but don't overdo it, to avoid changing the final texture.
- How can I keep the cookies fresh longer?: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.

Now it's time to start cooking! These crispy cookies will indulge you with every bite, and their aroma will fill the house with joy. Enjoy!