Are you craving a delicious, yet surprisingly healthy treat? Look no further than these luscious olive oil cookies! Forget everything you think you know about dry, crumbly cookies. These are soft, subtly sweet, and boast a delightful, fruity flavor thanks to the star ingredient: extra virgin olive oil. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, delivering a homemade taste that's simply irresistible. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these quick dinner dessert ideas!
Ingredients: A Pantry-Friendly List
This recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have on hand, making it a perfect choice for a spontaneous baking session.
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil (the best quality you can find!)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Optional: ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, almonds, or pecans) or dried cranberries
Instructions: Bake Your Way to Happiness
Follow these simple steps for perfectly baked olive oil cookies:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
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Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
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Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, 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. If using nuts or dried cranberries, fold them in now.
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Scoop & Bake: Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
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Baking Time: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as ovens vary.
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Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Cookie Perfection
- Olive Oil Matters: Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. A fruity olive oil will complement the cookies beautifully.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): For thicker, chewier cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Variations: Get Creative in the Kitchen!
- Spice it Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm, spiced cookie.
- Citrus Twist: Zest of one lemon or orange adds a bright, refreshing flavor.
- Chocolate Chunk Delight: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-180
- Fat: 8-10g
- Saturated Fat: 1-2g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Sugar: 10-12g
- Protein: 2-3g
These olive oil cookies are a delicious and healthy addition to your baking repertoire. Enjoy the simple pleasure of homemade goodness! They're perfect for afternoon tea, alongside a cup of coffee, or as a delightful treat any time of day. This healthy meals recipe makes for the best recipes you'll want to make again and again!