Indulge in the delightful aroma and taste of homemade vanilla cookies with this simple and scrumptious recipe. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy evening at home or a gathering with friends. With a few basic ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a batch of these delicious treats in no time.
Ingredients:
- 150g sugar 🍬
- 250g wheat flour 🍞
- 150g butter 🧈
- 1 egg 🥚
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 🌼
- 1 small tablespoon baking powder 🧁
Directions:
- Begin by mixing the sugar and butter in a bowl using a wooden paddle or an electric mixer. Blend them until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture, continuing to beat until smooth and free of lumps.
- Slowly incorporate the baking powder and wheat flour into the mixture, stirring constantly to ensure a uniform paste forms.
- Refrigerate the vanilla cookie dough for approximately 2 hours to allow it to firm up.
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) about 10 minutes before the dough’s chilling time is complete.
- Roll out the chilled dough to your desired thickness, approximately 0.5 cm or less, using a rolling pin.
- Use cookie cutters, glasses, or a knife to cut out the cookies in various shapes and sizes.
- Grease a baking tray and arrange the cut-out cookies on it, leaving enough space between them to prevent sticking as they bake and expand.
- Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 15 minutes, or until they turn golden.
- Once baked, carefully remove the vanilla cookies from the oven and allow them to cool to room temperature.
Tips:
- Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing and creamier texture.
- Don’t overmix the dough to prevent toughness in the cookies.
- Experiment with different cookie cutter shapes to add fun and variety to your cookies.
Conclusion:
Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade vanilla cookies with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, these cookies are sure to delight with their buttery goodness and aromatic vanilla flavor. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and treat yourself to a batch of freshly baked vanilla cookies today!
- Can I substitute margarine for butter in this recipe?
While you can technically substitute margarine for butter in this recipe, keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the cookies may be slightly different. Butter typically adds richness and flavor to baked goods that margarine may not fully replicate. If you choose to use margarine, opt for a stick variety rather than a spread, as spreads often contain more water and can affect the consistency of the dough. Additionally, check the label to ensure the margarine is suitable for baking. Experimentation may be needed to achieve the desired taste and texture when using margarine instead of butter. - Can I use vanilla essence instead of vanilla extract?
Yes, you can use vanilla essence as a substitute for vanilla extract in this recipe. However, there are some differences between the two. Vanilla extract is made by soaking vanilla beans in alcohol, resulting in a stronger and more concentrated flavor compared to vanilla essence, which is often a synthetic flavoring. If you choose to use vanilla essence, you may need to adjust the quantity to achieve the desired level of vanilla flavor. Start with a smaller amount and taste the dough before adding more, as vanilla essence can be more potent than vanilla extract. Additionally, be mindful of the ingredients in the vanilla essence you use, as some varieties may contain additives or artificial flavors. - Can I chill the cookie dough for longer than 2 hours?
Yes, you can chill the cookie dough for longer than 2 hours if needed. Chilling the dough helps firm it up, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes. You can chill the dough for several hours or even overnight if you prefer. Simply wrap the dough in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container before refrigerating to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, allow the dough to come to room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out, as chilled dough can be stiff and difficult to work with. - How should I store homemade vanilla cookies?
To keep your homemade vanilla cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. Proper storage helps maintain their texture and flavor for several days. If you live in a warm or humid climate, consider adding a piece of bread to the container to help absorb excess moisture and prevent the cookies from becoming too soft. Avoid storing the cookies in the refrigerator, as the moisture can cause them to become soggy. If you need to store them for longer periods or want to preserve their freshness, you can freeze the cookies in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to a few months. Allow them to thaw at room temperature before serving.