Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that blends the familiar comfort of cookies with the unexpected delight of olive oil? Forget everything you think you know about cookie recipes; we're about to unveil a secret ingredient that adds incredible moisture, a subtle fruity note, and a wonderfully tender crumb to your favorite treats. These olive oil cookies are not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly easy to make, perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pros looking for a new challenge. Get ready to discover a whole new world of cookie possibilities!
Ingredients: Your Olive Oil Cookie Arsenal
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup extra virgin olive oil (a good quality one makes a difference!)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but highly recommended!)
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Coarse sea salt, for sprinkling (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Bliss
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Combine Wet Ingredients:
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and olive oil until light and fluffy. This is crucial for achieving that tender crumb. A stand mixer works wonderfully, but a hand mixer will do the trick too.
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Gradually add the granulated and brown sugars, beating well until fully incorporated.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well combined.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
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Stir in the chopped nuts (if using).
Baking and Cooling:
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Drop rounded tablespoons of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
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Sprinkle with coarse sea salt (optional), for an extra touch of deliciousness.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
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Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Olive Oil Cookies
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for optimal creaming. This ensures a smooth and evenly textured dough.
- Olive Oil Quality: Using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil will significantly enhance the flavor of your cookies. Look for one with a fruity aroma and a mild taste.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Cooling Time: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
Variations to Explore: Endless Possibilities!
- Chocolate Chunk Olive Oil Cookies: Add ½ cup of your favorite chocolate chips to the dough.
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one lemon or orange for a bright and refreshing twist.
- Spiced Olive Oil Cookies: Incorporate additional spices like ginger, cardamom, or nutmeg.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-180 (depending on variations and serving size)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
These olive oil cookies are a fantastic example of how a simple swap of ingredients can elevate a classic recipe. They're perfect for enjoying with a glass of milk, coffee, or even a nice cup of tea. Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious treats!