Economic cookies - for fasting
Lenten Cookies - Quick and Economical Sweets for Indulgent Moments
Who said that the fasting period has to be devoid of sweets? Today, I will reveal a simple, quick, and extremely delicious recipe for Lenten cookies that will satisfy any sweet craving. These economical cookies are perfect not only for those who are fasting but also for anyone who wants to enjoy a quick and tasty dessert. With just a few accessible ingredients, you'll achieve a result that will quickly disappear from the platter.
Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 25 cookies
A Brief Story
Cookies have a long-standing tradition in the culinary culture of many nations, often associated with moments of celebration and joy. During the fasting period, various cookie variations have evolved to meet the needs of those who wish to maintain their spiritual diet without completely giving up on sweet pleasures. The recipe we will explore today is inspired by Laura Adamache's creations and promises to bring a touch of joy to every day.
Necessary Ingredients
- 200 g flour
- 50 g starch
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- 50 g oil (preferably sunflower oil or olive oil)
- 80 ml water or soy milk
- 80 g granulated sugar (I used 40 g brown sugar and 40 g granulated sugar for a deeper taste)
- 1 teaspoon honey (optional, if you want an extra sweetness)
- 1/2 vial of vanilla essence or any preferred flavors (orange, almond, etc.)
- A pinch of salt
- Powdered sugar (optional, for decoration)
Useful Tips for Preparation
These cookies are not only delicious but also extremely easy to prepare. Here are some practical tips for achieving the perfect result:
1. Flour and Starch: Starch contributes to the fragile texture of the cookies. Make sure to use quality starch for the best results.
2. Oil: The oil can influence the final taste of the cookies. For example, olive oil will add a distinct note, while sunflower oil will provide a more neutral flavor.
3. Sugar: The mix of brown sugar and granulated sugar gives a more complex flavor. If you want to reduce sugar even more, try replacing honey with a natural sweetener.
4. Flavors: Feel free to experiment with various flavors. A drop of almond essence or some citrus peels can completely transform the final taste.
Preparation Steps
1. Mixing Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the flour, starch, baking powder, and salt. These dry ingredients will form the base of our cookies. Mix them well with a whisk.
2. Adding Wet Ingredients: Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients mixture and add the oil, water or soy milk, sugar, and vanilla essence. If you choose to use honey, add it now. Using a spatula or a wooden spoon, start mixing the ingredients until you obtain a smooth and non-sticky dough.
3. Forming the Dough: Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface to avoid sticking. Remove the dough from the bowl and start kneading it gently. Form a ball, then roll out the dough with a rolling pin into a sheet about 5-10 mm thick.
4. Cutting the Cookies: Using your preferred shapes (circles, stars, flowers), cut out the cookies and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Leave a little space between them, as they will expand slightly during baking.
5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat) and place the tray with cookies inside. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn slightly golden. It is essential not to leave them too long, as they can become dry.
6. Cooling and Decorating: After the cookies are ready, remove the tray from the oven and let them cool on a rack. Once cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar if desired.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delicious served plain, but they can also be an excellent base for more elaborate desserts. Try pairing them with a scoop of soy ice cream or a fresh fruit sauce. They can also be served alongside a cup of aromatic tea or coffee.
Storing the Cookies
To keep them soft, store the cookies in a container with a lid at room temperature. This way, the flavor and texture will last longer. If you want to ensure you have enough for the next day, feel free to double the batch. I assure you that once you try them, you won't be able to resist the temptation to enjoy them!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I replace the oil with butter?
No, the recipe is adapted to be vegan, but you can use coconut oil for a more exotic flavor.
2. Can I add nuts or chocolate?
Yes, you can add chopped nuts or vegan chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.
3. How can I make the cookies crunchier?
Bake them a few minutes longer, but be careful not to burn them. Another method is to let them cool completely on a rack.
Nutritional Benefits
These Lenten cookies are a healthier choice than many other desserts, having a low fat content and no animal-derived ingredients. The flour and starch provide essential carbohydrates, and the sugar can be adjusted according to your personal preferences. Additionally, using healthy oils contributes to the intake of essential fatty acids.
These economical Lenten cookies are not only easy to prepare but also an excellent way to bring a touch of joy to fasting days. So, don't wait any longer! Try them and indulge in a sweet and aromatic taste.
Ingredients: For approx. 25 cookies: 200 g flour 50 g starch 1/2 packet of baking powder 50 g oil 80 ml water/soy milk 80 g granulated sugar (I used 40 g brown sugar and 40 g granulated sugar) 1 teaspoon of honey 1/2 vial of vanilla essence or any flavors you like a pinch of salt powdered sugar (optional)
