Zebra cookies

Zebra Cookies - A Fluffy Delight with an Irresistible Look

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 20 cookies

Who doesn't love a quick and simple dessert that delights the eyes and taste buds? Zebra cookies are a perfect example of a recipe that combines fluffy texture with a playful appearance, making them ideal to enjoy alongside a cup of coffee or tea. These cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make, perfect for any cooking enthusiast, regardless of skill level.

The basic ingredients you will use are simple and likely already in your pantry. Zebra cookies have a lovely history, inspired by baking traditions that blend simple ingredients to create sweets that bring joy to our days.

Ingredients

- 250 g all-purpose flour
- 200 g semolina
- 200 g powdered sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 40 g butter
- 40 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive)
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons powdered milk
- 100 ml sweet milk
- 2-3 tablespoons cocoa
- 2-3 tablespoons rum sugar (optional but recommended)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, combine the flour, semolina, powdered milk, and baking powder. Mix the dry ingredients well with a wooden spoon or whisk, ensuring there are no lumps. The semolina will add a pleasant texture to the cookies, while the powdered milk will provide a delicate taste and creamy aroma.

Step 2: Preparing the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, melt the butter over low heat. Once completely melted, add the oil and mix well. This combination will make the cookies tender and aromatic.

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt and powdered sugar. Use an electric mixer to achieve a fluffy mixture that doubles in volume. This step is essential for getting fluffy cookies.

Step 3: Combining the Ingredients
Incorporate the melted butter and oil into the egg mixture, mixing gently. Then, add the dry ingredients over the egg mixture and stir with a spatula until everything is well combined. If the dough seems too thick, feel free to gradually add the sweet milk, mixing continuously. If the dough becomes too soft, you can adjust with a little flour. The goal is to achieve a moldable but slightly soft dough.

Step 4: Resting the Dough
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This will allow the semolina to swell, contributing to a more pleasant texture.

Step 5: Shaping the Cookies
After the dough has been in the refrigerator, remove it and start forming medium-sized balls (about the size of a walnut). Roll each ball in a mixture of cocoa and rum sugar, ensuring they are evenly coated. Place the balls on a baking tray, leaving a distance of 2 cm between them to allow for expansion during baking.

Step 6: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cookies for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden and fluffy. It is important not to leave them in the oven too long, as you want to keep the soft texture.

Step 7: Cooling
After removing them from the oven, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential to prevent the cookies from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions
Zebra cookies are perfect for serving at a gathering with friends or as a quick dessert after dinner. You can pair them with a flavorful cup of coffee, a fruit tea, or even a glass of cold milk. Add a personal touch by sprinkling ground nuts or coconut flakes on top before baking.

Possible Variations
If you want to experiment, try replacing cocoa with carob powder or adding chocolate chips to the dough for an even more decadent flavor. You can also use various flavors, such as vanilla or cinnamon, to customize the recipe.

Nutritional Benefits
These cookies contain simple yet nutritious ingredients. Semolina provides a good source of fiber, while eggs offer quality protein. Butter and oil contribute healthy fats, and powdered sugar can be replaced with healthier alternatives, such as natural sweeteners, to reduce caloric intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can replace part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option, but the texture will be slightly different.

2. How can I keep the cookies fresh?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for several days.

3. What else can I add to the dough?
You can add dried fruits, chocolate, or even a hint of citrus zest for an even more refined taste.

Zebra cookies are a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for making any day of the week. With a little skill and patience, you will create a dessert that will impress everyone! Start today to indulge in these fluffy cookies and enjoy every bite!