Tender cookies

Tender Cookies – The Perfect Delight for Sweet Mornings

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Number of servings: 60 cookies

Who doesn’t dream of a perfect morning, with a steaming cup of coffee and a tender cookie in hand? These tender cookies are exactly what you need to add a touch of joy to your daily routine. With a simple combination of ingredients and a quick preparation process, you’ll have a sweet delight ready to enjoy in no time.

The history of these cookies is fascinating. Cookies, in general, were created out of people’s need for a portable snack that would last well over time. Today, they are a symbol of comfort and joy, often made for family gatherings, celebrations, or simply to bring a smile to the faces of loved ones.

Ingredients

To prepare these tender cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

- 250 g soft butter, at room temperature
- 120 g sugar
- 5 egg yolks
- 250 g flour
- 120 g cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon rum essence (or vanilla, if you prefer)

For decoration:

- 50 g melted chocolate

Step by Step: Preparing Tender Cookies

1. Preparing Ingredients: Ensure the butter is soft by leaving it at room temperature for an hour before starting the recipe. This will allow for easier creaming with the sugar, resulting in a fluffier texture.

2. Creaming Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, place the soft butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to combine the two ingredients. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential for incorporating air into the dough, which will make the cookies tender.

3. Adding Egg Yolks: Gradually add the egg yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Adding the rum essence (or vanilla) at this point will give the cookies a delicious aroma that will fill the entire kitchen.

4. Mixing Flour and Cornstarch: In another bowl, sift the flour and cornstarch together. This step helps eliminate any lumps and ensures an even distribution of cornstarch, which will contribute to the cookies’ tenderness. Add the flour mixture to the butter composition and mix until homogeneous. Be careful not to overmix to avoid gluten development, which could make the cookies tough.

5. Shaping the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Prepare a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Use a teaspoon or a special cookie press to form small balls of dough on the prepared tray. Make sure to leave enough space between the cookies, as they will spread slightly during baking.

6. Baking the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, until the edges turn slightly golden. It’s important to monitor them, as each oven bakes differently. The cookies will continue to bake after you take them out of the oven, so don’t let them brown too much.

7. Cooling and Decorating: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the tray, as they are very tender and may break if moved too early. Once cooled, you can decorate them as you wish: dusted with sugar, coated in melted chocolate, or simply left plain to be enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee.

Practical Tip: If you want to add a personal touch, you can incorporate chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins into the dough. These additions can transform your cookies into a true indulgence.

Nutritional Values: Each cookie has approximately 80 calories, depending on their size and the added ingredients. These cookies are rich in healthy fats due to the butter and have a moderate carbohydrate content. You can enjoy them in moderation, especially if paired with a warm drink like green tea or coffee.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I replace butter with margarine?: Yes, but keep in mind that the final texture and taste may vary.
- How can I keep the cookies fresh for longer?: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for up to 10 days.
- Can I freeze the cookies?: Absolutely! You can freeze the dough before baking or the baked cookies. Make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn.

These tender cookies will not only delight your mornings but will also become a cherished treat for everyone around you. Don’t forget to share them with your loved ones and savor every moment. Happy baking!