Owl eyes

Owl Eyes Recipe: Delicious Cookies with a Touch of Chocolate

Owl eyes is a recipe that not only delights the eyes but also the taste buds. These cookies, with their playful shape and combination of flavors, are perfect for moments of indulgence or as sweet little gifts. This quick dessert easily becomes the star of any meal and will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Preparing them is a joyful activity, perfect to do together with the little ones.

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

Ingredients
- 200 g powdered sugar
- 200 ml yogurt (choose a natural one, without additives)
- 200 g butter (preferably at room temperature for better homogenization)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa
- 2 packets of instant coffee (or instant coffee for an intense flavor)
- Rum essence (1-2 drops, to taste)
- A pinch of salt
- 500 g flour (approximately, may vary depending on humidity)
- A pinch of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, but recommended for a special aroma)

Recipe History
This type of cookie has a long tradition, being associated with festive moments and holidays. Cookies with funny shapes are popular in many cultures, often made for special occasions. The owl eye shape was inspired by the desire to bring a smile to the faces of loved ones, being perfect to enjoy alongside a cup of milk or tea.

Step by step for a perfect result

1. Preparing the butter mixture
In a large bowl, mix 200 g of butter with 200 g of powdered sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy. This is a crucial step, as the air incorporated in this stage will make the cookies fluffier.

2. Adding wet ingredients
Add the yogurt, rum essence, and a pinch of salt. Continue mixing until completely homogenized.

3. Preparing dry ingredients
In another bowl, sift 400 g of flour with the baking powder and cinnamon. This not only helps eliminate any lumps but also improves the texture of the cookies.

4. Combining ingredients
Add the dry ingredients to the bowl with the wet ingredients, mixing gently with a spatula or your hands. It is important not to overmix, as this would develop the gluten in the flour, leading to hard cookies.

5. Dividing the dough
Once the dough is well homogenized, divide it into two equal parts. Set aside 1/3 of the dough, while the rest will be used for the brown cookies. In this larger portion, add 1 tablespoon of cocoa and 2 packets of instant coffee. Mix well.

6. Chilling the dough
Wrap both portions of dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving cookies with a perfect texture.

7. Shaping the cookies
After the dough has chilled, roll out the brown portion on a floured surface to form a sheet about 5 mm thick. Use a round cutter to cut out circles. Do the same with the white dough, but cut out smaller circles.

8. Assembling the cookies
Take two brown circles and stick them together with a little beaten egg white in the middle. Then, brush the top with egg white and add a white circle. You can decorate with melted chocolate for an extra flavor.

9. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat) and place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes, or until they are lightly browned on the bottom.

10. Cooling and serving
Once the cookies are ready, let them cool on a rack. This step is important to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Serving suggestions
These cookies are delicious alongside a cup of warm milk, tea, or coffee. You can share them with friends at a party or give them as gifts in beautifully decorated boxes.

Variations of the recipe
- You can replace cocoa with carob powder for a less sweet but equally tasty option.
- Add ground nuts or coconut flakes to the dough for added texture.
- Experiment with flavors by adding vanilla or orange for a unique taste.

Nutritional benefits
These cookies are a good source of carbohydrates and can provide quick energy due to the sugar and coffee. The yogurt adds a note of protein and calcium, contributing to a balanced diet. However, moderate consumption is essential, considering the sugar content.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use another type of sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar for a more caramelized taste.
- How can I store the cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days.
- Can they be frozen?
Yes, the cookies can be frozen before baking. Place them on a tray and put them in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and bake directly from the freezer.

Now that you have all the details, it's time to put on your apron and start cooking! Making these Owl Eyes cookies will not only fill the house with inviting aromas but will also bring unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Enjoy!