homemade cookies

Homemade Cookies - Childhood Memories

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 30-40 cookies

Our culinary journey begins with a recipe full of nostalgia, taking us back to the moments when the aroma of fresh cookies filled the house. These homemade cookies are more than just a snack; they are memories of childhood, a connection between generations, and a wonderful way to spend quality time with family. Together with my 5-year-old daughter, we enjoy making them, and each bite reminds us of the beautiful moments spent in the kitchen with mom.

Essential ingredients:
- 700 g of flour
- 250 g of margarine
- 250 g of sugar
- 4 eggs
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 packet of baking powder

These simple ingredients are, in fact, the key to obtaining delicious and tender cookies. Flour is the base of the recipe, while margarine provides a soft texture and rich flavor. Sugar, in addition to its role as a sweetener, contributes to the crunchy texture of the cookies, and the eggs help bind the ingredients. Vanilla sugar adds a fragrant note, while the baking powder ensures even rising.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients at room temperature. This will make mixing easier and help achieve a homogeneous texture.

2. Mixing margarine and sugar: In a large bowl, add the softened margarine (ideally, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes) and sugar. Use an electric mixer or a spatula to combine them until you achieve a fluffy and homogeneous mixture. This step is essential, as the air incorporated will make the cookies fluffier.

3. Adding the eggs: Crack the eggs, one at a time, and incorporate them into the margarine and sugar mixture. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This will create a moist base that will help bind the flour later.

4. Incorporating the flour and baking powder: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. This will help distribute the leavening agent evenly. Gradually add the flour mixture to the margarine mixture, stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon. Do not overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to less tender cookies.

5. Shaping the cookies: Now comes the fun part! If you have a cookie press, attach the desired shape and start forming the cookies directly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. If not, you can make small balls of dough and gently flatten them with your palm. Make sure to leave enough space between the cookies to allow for expansion.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes, or until they turn slightly golden around the edges. You can check them every five minutes to prevent them from becoming too crunchy. Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a rack.

7. Serving: The cookies are delicious warm, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. You can dust them with powdered sugar for a more festive look, or serve them alongside a cup of warm milk or tea. They can also be accompanied by vanilla ice cream for a more sophisticated dessert.

Additional tips:
- If you want citrus-flavored cookies, add grated lemon or orange zest to the margarine mixture.
- You can replace margarine with butter for a richer taste, but check the temperature, as butter melts faster.
- These cookies keep well in an airtight container for a few days, but they are so good that they might not last long!

Nutritional benefits:
These cookies are a source of carbohydrates, providing you with the energy needed for an active day. Additionally, the eggs bring protein and healthy fats, while sugar adds a quick energy boost. Clearly, they are not the healthiest cookies, but some of us need those indulgent moments!

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of white flour?
Yes, but keep in mind that the texture of the cookies will be denser. It is recommended to mix whole wheat flour with a little white flour for a better texture.

2. How can I enrich the recipe?
Add chopped nuts or chocolate. These ingredients can turn the cookies into a true delight.

3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, these cookies freeze very well. Make sure they are completely cooled before placing them in a freezer bag.

I hope you enjoy this homemade cookie recipe as much as we do. Each bite is a journey back in time, filled with love, warmth, and special moments spent with family. Savor every moment in the kitchen and remember that cooking is an art, and each recipe tells a story!