Cookies for tea

Delicious Cookies for Tea

Who doesn't love the warm aroma of freshly baked cookies that perfectly complement a cup of tea? These cookies are not only a wonderful choice for a snack but also a true delight to share with loved ones. This recipe is simple, yet the result is impressive! Moreover, the cookies keep well, so you can make them in advance for special moments.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 40 cookies

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of flour
- 2 packets of baking powder
- 1 cup of oil (approximately 250 ml)
- 1 ½ cups of sugar (approximately 300 g)
- 3 eggs
- 4 tablespoons of sesame seeds
- ½ cup of water (approximately 125 ml)
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons of grated lemon or orange zest
- 1-2 tablespoons of poppy seeds or ground anise (optional)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This will help achieve a uniform texture. Buy quality ingredients: the flour should be fresh, and the eggs should be from free-range hens for better taste.

2. Mixing the liquid ingredients: In the bowl of a mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, add the eggs, sugar, oil, and water. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.

3. Adding flavors: Incorporate the lemon or orange zest, sesame seeds, and a pinch of salt. These additions will give the cookies a fresh and vibrant flavor.

4. Including the dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and, if desired, with the poppy seeds or ground anise. This step will help distribute the leavening agent evenly and add a subtle taste. Gradually add the flour mixture to the liquid mixture, stirring gently to avoid lumps.

5. Resting the dough: Once you have a homogeneous dough, cover it with plastic wrap and let it rest for 1 hour. This step is essential to allow the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

6. Shaping the cookies: After the resting time, divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Work with one piece at a time, rolling it out on a floured surface to about ½ cm thickness. Use a serrated wheel to cut into diamonds or desired shapes. This tool not only adds a nice appearance but also helps to separate the cookies easily.

7. Baking: Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring you leave enough space between them, as they will spread slightly while baking. Preheat the oven to 160°C and bake the cookies for 20 minutes or until golden.

8. Cooling and storing: After removing them from the oven, let the cookies cool on a rack. Once completely cooled, store them in an airtight container, where they will remain fresh for several weeks.

Serving suggestions: These cookies are perfect alongside a cup of green tea, but they also pair well with morning coffee or a creamy latte. You can serve them plain or share them with friends, adding a personal touch by sprinkling some ground nuts on top before baking.

Nutritional benefits: These cookies are rich in carbohydrates from the flour, and the sesame seeds provide a healthy source of fats and proteins. The citrus zest adds vitamin C, and if you choose to use anise, you'll also benefit from its digestive properties.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of oil? Yes, you can substitute sunflower oil with coconut oil or any other vegetable oil.
- How can I keep the cookies longer? Make sure to store them in an airtight container, away from moisture.
- What other flavors can I add? You can experiment with vanilla extract or cinnamon for a different taste.

These cookies are not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to adapt them according to your preferences. So let’s get to work and enjoy delicious moments with our loved ones!