Vanilla Butter Cookies

Vanilla Butter Cookies - A Delight for Tea

Vanilla butter cookies are a traditional dessert, perfect for enjoying alongside a cup of aromatic tea. These delicious treats have a tender texture and a sweet flavor, enhanced by a tempting vanilla aroma, thanks to high-quality ingredients. Preparing them is quite simple and can be done in a timely manner, allowing us to enjoy them even on the busiest days. I invite you to discover the steps to create these delightful cookies!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 30-35 cookies

Ingredients:
- 800 g high-quality all-purpose flour
- 250 g sugar
- 200 g butter (82% fat)
- 150 ml sour cream
- 2 egg yolks
- 3 eggs
- 2 packets of bourbon vanilla
- ½ packet of baking powder

The History of Vanilla Butter Cookies
Cookies have a rich history, associated with moments of indulgence and relaxation, especially in the company of warm tea. These treats are a perfect example of how culinary traditions can bring together people from various corners of the world, each contributing to the flavors and preparation techniques. Once you try this recipe, you will understand why cookies are so beloved.

Preparing the Cookies

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier incorporation into the mixture. If you want to save time, take the butter out of the fridge about an hour before you start cooking.

Step 2: Creating the Dough Base
In a large bowl, add the softened butter and sugar. Using an electric mixer or a spatula, mix well until you achieve a fluffy, light-colored, creamy texture. This process is essential for incorporating air into the dough, ensuring the cookies are tender.

Step 3: Adding the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the 3 eggs and the 2 packets of bourbon vanilla to the butter and sugar mixture. Continue mixing until everything is well combined. The bourbon vanilla will add an intense and rich flavor, transforming these cookies into a delicacy.

Step 4: Combining the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. It is essential to sift the flour to avoid lumps in the dough. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Mix with a spatula until you achieve a smooth and manageable dough.

Step 5: Forming the Cookies
Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1 cm. Using a cookie cutter with a diameter of 3 cm, cut out the cookies. If you don't have a cutter, you can also use a small glass.

Step 6: Preparing for Baking
Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. In a small bowl, beat the two egg yolks and brush each cookie with a thin layer. This step will help achieve a beautiful golden color during baking.

Step 7: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) and place the tray with cookies inside. Let them bake for 15-20 minutes or until they turn golden and fragrant. The aroma will be irresistible and will make you eager to enjoy them.

Step 8: Serving
Once the cookies have cooled slightly, arrange them on a platter and enjoy them with a fragrant tea, perhaps with a bit of honey for an even sweeter taste. These treats are perfect for serving during a gathering with friends or at a tea party.

Practical Tips
- It is recommended to use high-quality flour, as this will influence the final texture and taste of the cookies.
- If you want a healthier version, you can replace part of the butter with coconut oil or margarine.
- To vary the flavors, try adding grated lemon or orange zest to the dough.
- You can store the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week, but they are best enjoyed fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of sugar?
Yes, you can experiment with brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor, but be sure to adjust the amount, as brown sugar is moister than white sugar.

2. What type of tea pairs best with the cookies?
Green tea or black tea are excellent options, but feel free to try herbal teas, such as chamomile or mint.

3. How can I make the cookies less sweet?
Reduce the sugar by 50 grams for a less sweet taste, but remember that a little sugar helps with the texture of the cookies.

Nutritional Benefits
These vanilla butter cookies provide a good source of energy due to their healthy fats and carbohydrates. Additionally, butter and eggs contribute essential vitamins and beneficial fats. However, it is important to consume them in moderation, considering their caloric content.

Calories
Each cookie has approximately 80-90 calories, depending on size and ingredients used, so enjoy them with pleasure, but in moderation!

Possible Variations
- Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough for a crunchy texture and an extra burst of flavor.
- Try making cocoa-flavored cookies for a chocolate version, using 50 g of cocoa instead of flour.

In conclusion, vanilla butter cookies are not only a culinary delight but also an excellent way to express your creativity in the kitchen. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself during an afternoon, these cookies will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, let’s put on our aprons and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen! Enjoy your meal!