Nuts and honey pastries

Tender Cookies with Nuts and Honey – A Fragrant Indulgence

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes (including resting time)
Number of Servings: 24 cookies

Who doesn't love a dessert that combines fragility with an intense nut flavor and the natural sweetness of honey? These tender cookies with nuts and honey are perfect for adding a touch of joy to any day. Whether you enjoy them alongside a cup of tea or gift them to loved ones, each bite will reveal an explosion of flavors that will delight your senses.

A Brief History of Cookies

Cookies, also known as biscuits in some corners of the world, have a long history, having been made for thousands of years. Their origins are lost in the mists of time, initially used as portable food for travelers. Over time, recipes diversified, and ingredients adapted to local tastes. These cookies with nuts and honey pay homage to culinary traditions, combining simple ingredients into a sophisticated dessert.

Nutritional Benefits

These cookies are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Nuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and antioxidants, while honey provides a natural energy boost. Additionally, butter contributes to a creamy texture, and sugar adds sweetness, making them ideal for moments when you need a treat.

Ingredients for Tender Cookies with Nuts and Honey

- 250 g flour (preferably type 000)
- 1 pinch of baking powder
- 1 egg yolk
- 150 g butter (at room temperature, for easy incorporation)
- 100 g sugar (preferably fine sugar)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (for extra flavor)
- 100 g honey (choose high-quality honey)
- 100 g chopped nuts (not too finely chopped, for a pleasant texture)
- Powdered vanilla sugar (for decoration)
- 2-3 tablespoons of milk (to bind the mixture)

Step by Step – How to Prepare Cookies with Nuts and Honey

1. Preparing the Dough
In a large bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. This step is essential for achieving a uniform and light dough. Add the egg yolk, soft butter, sugar, and vanilla sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to combine the ingredients. Gradually add the milk to help bind the dough. Knead gently until you obtain a compact dough.

2. Resting the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for one hour. This resting time is crucial as it will allow the butter to firm up, making the dough easier to shape.

3. Shaping the Cookies
After the dough has been in the fridge, divide it into two equal parts. Roll each part into logs about 4 cm in diameter. Cut slices about 1 cm thick and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them. This is important as the cookies will spread during baking.

4. Preparing the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the chopped nuts with the honey until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Make an indentation in the center of each slice of dough (using your finger or the tip of a spoon) and fill them with the nut and honey mixture.

5. Baking
Preheat the oven to 170°C. Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 15-20 minutes until they become lightly golden. Be careful, as baking times may vary depending on the oven.

6. Cooling and Decorating
After the cookies are baked, let them cool on a rack. Once cooled, generously dust them with powdered vanilla sugar for an elegant look and sweet taste.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

These tender cookies are delicious and simple, but you can customize them according to your preferences. Try adding a splash of orange or lemon essence to the dough for a refreshing citrus flavor. Also, instead of nuts, you can use almonds or pistachios for a different twist.

For a complete experience, enjoy these cookies alongside a cup of herbal tea or aromatic coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of nuts?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, to achieve different flavors.

2. How can I make the cookies less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the dough or use honey without added sugar.

3. What is the best way to store the cookies?
Store the cookies in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can last a few days, but they are best enjoyed in the first days after baking.

Calories and Nutrition

Each cookie contains approximately 100 calories, depending on the size and ingredients used. Nutritional benefits include protein, healthy fats from nuts, and carbohydrates from flour, making them a better choice than other processed sweets.

These tender cookies with nuts and honey are not only a simple recipe but also an invitation to creativity in the kitchen. Experiment, adapt, and most importantly, enjoy every bite!