biscuits (or as my mother calls them)

Homemade Cookies – Grandma's Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 40 cookies

The history of cookies is a fascinating one, often tied to childhood memories and moments spent with loved ones. Cookies, or as we call them "Mom's cookies", are that delicacy that reminds us of sunny summer days when we were kids, enjoying school days with these delicious snacks in our backpacks. This cookie recipe is simple yet full of flavor, and their aroma will fill the entire house, bringing a smile to every family member's face.

Ingredients:
- 2 kg flour
- 2 eggs
- 2 baking powders
- 300 g lard (or 200 g butter, if you prefer)
- 200 ml oil
- 400 ml sour borscht (or yogurt for a creamier version)
- 250 g sugar (adjustable to taste)
- A pinch of salt (to enhance the flavors)

Step 1: Preparing the dough
Start by preparing a large bowl where you will mix the ingredients. Put the flour, salt, and baking powder in a large bowl. Make a well in the center and add the eggs, lard (or butter), and oil. Gradually pour in the sour borscht, mixing with a spatula or your hands. It’s important that the dough is well combined but not too soft. A good indicator that the dough is ready is when it no longer sticks to your fingers.

Practical tips:
- If you want fluffier cookies, add a bit more borscht.
- Taste the dough before baking; if you feel it needs more sugar, adjust to your liking.
- Use quality flour to achieve a perfect texture.

Step 2: Shaping the cookies
Once the dough is ready, it’s time to shape it. Use a meat grinder with a cookie attachment or form small balls that you flatten slightly with your hands. The cookies can have different shapes, and creativity is key! Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving space between them to prevent sticking during baking.

Step 3: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Once the oven is ready, place the tray with cookies inside and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. Be careful with the baking time, as each oven is different!

Step 4: Finishing
After the cookies are done, take them out of the oven and let them cool on a rack. You can dust them with powdered sugar for a more appetizing look and a touch of sweetness, or leave them plain to savor their authentic taste.

Serving and variations
Homemade cookies are perfect to enjoy with a cup of hot tea or aromatic coffee. They can also be a sweet gift for loved ones or an ideal dessert for parties. A delicious variation would be to add some chocolate chips or nuts to the dough for an extra crunch and flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fats instead of lard?
Yes, you can replace lard with butter or margarine, but the taste will be slightly different.
2. What can I do if the dough is too soft?
Add a little more flour until the dough becomes workable.
3. How can I store the cookies?
Keep the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for a few days.

Nutritional benefits:
These cookies contain carbohydrates from flour, proteins from eggs, and healthy fats from oil and lard. Additionally, the borscht adds a note of acidity that aids digestion. Of course, consume in moderation, especially if you are mindful of calories.

Calories:
One serving (about 3 cookies) has around 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

This cookie recipe is not just a treat, but also a way to keep cherished traditions and memories alive. So, get to work and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!