Are you looking for a simple yet impressive dessert recipe that's perfect for any occasion? Look no further! These Brown Edge Wafer Cookies are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, yet deliver a satisfyingly crispy and delicious treat. They're the perfect homemade cookies for satisfying a sweet craving, and a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these delightfully crispy wafers!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Batter
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze! In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This is best done with an electric mixer, but can be accomplished with a sturdy whisk and some elbow grease.
Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay! Overmixing can lead to tough cookies.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are lightly set. The characteristic brown edges are what give these cookies their name and irresistible appeal!
Step 4: Cool and Enjoy!
Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool on the sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. These cookies are best enjoyed slightly warm, but they are delicious at room temperature too.
Tips for the Best Brown Edge Wafer Cookies:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is truly softened, not melted. This will ensure that it creams properly with the sugar, resulting in a lighter and fluffier cookie.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough will develop the gluten in the flour, leading to tough cookies. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Evenly Spaced Cookies: Ensure you leave enough space between the cookies on the baking sheet. This allows for even baking and prevents them from spreading too much.
- Baking Time: Keep a close eye on your cookies while they bake. Ovens can vary, so baking time might need slight adjustments.
Variations:
- Chocolate Chip Wafer Cookies: Add 1 cup of chocolate chips to the dough for a delicious twist.
- Spiced Wafer Cookies: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg to the dough for a warm and comforting flavor.
- Citrus Wafer Cookies: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the dough for a bright and refreshing flavor.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120
- Fat: Approximately 6-7g
- Sugar: Approximately 7-8g
These Brown Edge Wafer Cookies are a delightful addition to any dessert spread. Their simple recipe and incredible taste make them a perfect choice for both beginner bakers and experienced cooks alike. Enjoy the easy process and delicious results!