Lemon and raisin cookies
Lemon and Raisin Cookies
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 24 cookies
Imagine a sunny morning, a steaming cup of tea, and a plate full of lemon and raisin cookies, ready to be enjoyed. These cookies not only combine the fresh flavor of lemon with the sweetness of raisins, but they are also easy to make, making them perfect for a quick breakfast, a snack between meals, or even a movie night with friends. This recipe brings a touch of joy in every bite!
A bit of history: Cookies have a long-standing tradition in various cultures, being considered the perfect treat for any occasion. This recipe blends simple yet nutrient-rich ingredients, giving it a rustic and healthy vibe. The use of whole wheat flour and oat flour transforms these cookies into a snack that is not only delicious but also nourishing.
Ingredients:
- 250 g whole wheat flour
- 250 g oat flour
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 7 tablespoons raw sugar
- 1 packet of dry yeast
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 50 g raisins (preferably soaked in warm water to plump)
Helpful tips about ingredients:
- Whole wheat flour is rich in fiber and gives a more intense flavor, while oat flour adds a soft texture and increased nutritional value.
- The butter should be soft but not melted; this way, it will easily incorporate into the dough, giving it the perfect consistency.
- Raisins can be replaced with other dried fruits, such as apricots or cranberries, if you want to experiment with different flavors.
Making the cookies:
1. Prepare the dough:
In a large bowl, combine the two types of flour. Add the dry yeast and raw sugar, mixing well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients. In another bowl, squeeze the juice from the two lemons and add it to the flour mixture. This step will bring a fresh, citrusy flavor to the dough.
2. Incorporate the wet ingredients:
Add the soft butter, egg, and honey to the flour mixture. If you want a more intense lemon flavor, now is the time to add a few drops of lemon extract. Mix everything with a spatula or your hands until the ingredients come together and the sugar dissolves. You will achieve a soft dough, similar to that for sweet bread.
3. Let the dough rise:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes, or until it doubles in size. This step is essential for fluffy cookies.
4. Shape the cookies:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal pieces. Roll each piece out into a thin sheet using a rolling pin. If the dough sticks, use a little oil on the rolling pin and the working surface to prevent sticking.
5. Cut out the cookies:
Using cookie cutters, cut the cookies into your desired shapes. I chose to cut them into stars, but you can experiment with any shape you prefer. Place a raisin in the center of each cookie for a sweet accent.
6. Dust with oat flour:
To achieve a rustic look, dust each cookie with oat flour on both sides. If the flour doesn’t stick, brush the cookies with a little honey or water to help the flour adhere.
7. Bake:
Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (low heat) for about 15 minutes or until golden. You will smell a delightful lemon aroma throughout the house!
8. Cool and serve:
Once the cookies are ready, let them cool on a rack for a few minutes. Serve them warm or at room temperature alongside a cup of fragrant tea or coffee. These cookies are also perfect for gifting, beautifully packaged in a decorative box.
Nutritional benefits:
These cookies are high in fiber due to the oat flour and raisins, and they have a low fat content thanks to the moderate use of butter. Lemon adds not only a fresh taste but also vitamin C, essential for immunity.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of flour? Yes, you can experiment with almond flour or whole grain flour, but you should adjust the amount of liquids accordingly.
- How can I store the cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness for a few days.
- Can I freeze the cookies? Yes, these cookies can be frozen, but it is recommended to freeze them before baking.
Possible variations:
You can also add other ingredients, such as chopped nuts, dark chocolate, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, to diversify the flavor of the cookies. Additionally, you can replace raisins with candied cherries or currants for a more exotic version.
Serving suggestions:
These cookies pair wonderfully with a warm beverage. Try them with green tea or an espresso for a perfect contrast between the acidity of the lemon and the bitterness of the coffee. For a special evening, you can serve them alongside vanilla ice cream, turning them into a refined dessert.
Now that you know how to make these lemon and raisin cookies, don’t hesitate to give them a try! I challenge you to adapt them to your preferences and share them with your loved ones. Enjoy your time in the kitchen!
Ingredients: -500 g flour (mix of wholemeal flour and oat flour) -100 g butter -2 lemons -7 tablespoons of raw sugar -1 packet of yeast -1 egg -1 tablespoon of honey -50 g raisins
