Homemade Cookies

Homemade Cookies - A Classic Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 20-25 cookies

Homemade cookies are a perfect choice for indulgent moments, whether you crave a quick snack, a pleasant companion for afternoon tea, or a dessert that brings smiles to the faces of your loved ones. This simple and quick recipe will transform your kitchen into a place filled with enticing aromas, and the result will be a pleasure for both the eyes and the taste.

Ingredients:

- 250 g flour
- 100 g sugar (preferably granulated for a finer texture)
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 egg (fresh, ideally from free-range hens)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional but recommended for extra flavor)
- A pinch of salt

Preparation Technique:

1. Prepare the ingredients: Ensure the butter is at room temperature so it easily incorporates into the mixture. Weigh all the ingredients and have them ready in an accessible place, making the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, add the softened butter and sugar. Mix them with an electric mixer or a spatula until the mixture becomes fluffy and light in color. This step is crucial, as the air incorporated will make the cookies fluffier.

3. Adding the egg and vanilla: Incorporate the egg into the butter and sugar mixture, followed by the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until you achieve a smooth paste. Vanilla not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of elegance to the cookies.

4. Incorporating the flour: Sifting the flour is an important step that ensures a uniform texture. Gradually add the flour, gently mixing with a spatula or on low speed with the mixer. It is essential not to overmix the dough; mix only until the flour is fully incorporated.

5. Shaping the cookies: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or grease it with butter and sprinkle a little flour. Using a piping bag (or a spoon), shape the cookies into desired forms on the prepared tray. Be creative: you can make round, square, or even heart-shaped cookies.

6. Baking: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes or until they turn golden. Keep an eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on the oven. Do not let the cookies burn; it is better to take them out earlier than later.

7. Cooling: Once the cookies are ready, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. This is an important step, as the cookies will continue to dry slightly and will become crispy on the outside.

Serving Suggestions:

These cookies are delicious served plain, but you can dress them with a simple glaze of powdered sugar and water or sprinkle them with vanilla sugar for an attractive appearance. They are perfect alongside a cup of hot tea or aromatic coffee. Additionally, you can use them as a base for a more elaborate dessert by adding a filling of cream or ice cream.

Variations and Tips:

- Chocolate cookies: Add 100 g of chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips to the dough for extra flavor.
- Nut cookies: Incorporate 50 g of ground or chopped nuts into the mixture for a crunchy texture.
- Dried fruit cookies: Add a handful of raisins or dried apricot pieces for a touch of natural sweetness.

Nutritional Benefits:

These homemade cookies are a good source of carbohydrates and healthy fats due to the butter. Sugar provides quick energy, but it's best to consume them in moderation. Additionally, by using fresh ingredients, you can control the quality and quantity of sugar.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I replace butter with coconut oil?: Yes, but the texture of the cookies will be different. Coconut oil will give a subtle coconut flavor.
- How can I store the cookies?: Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their crispness. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them.
- Can I use whole wheat flour?: Yes, but the cookies will have a denser texture. You can use half white flour and half whole wheat flour for a more complex flavor.

These homemade cookies are not just a simple recipe but also an opportunity to create beautiful memories with your loved ones. Whether you make them with your kids or at a gathering with friends, each bite will be a celebration of the wonderful moments spent around the table. Enjoy!