Are you looking for a delicious and easy recipe that evokes feelings of warmth and comfort? Then look no further! This Mother's Taffy Cookies recipe is a delightful blend of chewy taffy and buttery shortbread, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. These cookies are a cherished family recipe passed down through generations, and they're sure to become a new favorite in your household. They're ideal for quick dinner desserts, afternoon snacks, or even a special treat for Mother's Day! Let's dive into this simple recipe for homemade happiness.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup taffy pieces (butterscotch, peanut butter, or your favorite flavor!)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
Cream Together the Wet Ingredients:
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In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and both sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This is easiest with an electric mixer, but you can certainly do it by hand if you prefer a good arm workout.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
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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.
Add the Taffy:
- Gently fold in the taffy pieces until they're evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Bake the Cookies:
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Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie. They'll spread a bit as they bake.
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Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as ovens vary!
Cool and 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 Taffy Cookie Success:
- Softened Butter is Key: Make sure your butter is truly softened but not melted. This ensures proper creaming and a tender cookie.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing. This prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Taffy Variety: Experiment with different taffy flavors to create your own unique variations!
Variations:
- Chocolate Swirl: Add 1/2 cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips along with the taffy.
- Nutty Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or almonds) for added crunch.
- Seasonal Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg adds a warm, comforting touch, especially during colder months.
Nutritional Information (per cookie, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-10g
- Sugar: 15-20g
These Mother's Taffy Cookies are a delicious and easy recipe perfect for any occasion. The combination of chewy taffy and buttery shortbread creates a truly irresistible treat. Enjoy baking, and happy eating!