Cookies
Delicious Vanilla Sugar Cookies Recipe
Total preparation time: 45-50 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 13-15 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 40 cookies
Cookies are a classic and beloved choice, being a dessert that brings joy to every household. This simple recipe for vanilla sugar cookies is a perfect combination of textures and flavors that will turn any moment into a celebration. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or give them as a gift to a loved one, these cookies are always an inspired choice.
Ingredients
- 3 egg whites
- 4 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 2 boiled egg yolks
- 1 raw egg yolk
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- 1 cup of flour (approximately 150 g) + ½ cup (approximately 75 g)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt
Necessary utensils
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Large mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Piping bag (or cookie press)
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Sieve (to pass the boiled egg yolks)
A brief history
Cookies have a fascinating history, being among the oldest pastry preparations. They are believed to have been created in ancient times, and over time they have evolved and diversified according to the culinary traditions of each culture. Today, cookies are a symbol of comfort and good taste, and this recipe pays tribute to these delicious traditions.
Step-by-step instructions
1. Preparing the egg whites: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Ensure that the bowl in which you will beat the egg whites is clean and dry. Add a pinch of salt and beat the egg whites with an electric mixer until they become frothy. This is a crucial step, as the egg white foam will give the cookies an airy texture.
2. Adding the sugar: While continuing to beat, gradually add the powdered sugar. Keep mixing until the mixture becomes firm and glossy. This is the perfect base for your cookies!
3. Incorporating the butter and yolks: In another bowl, mix the butter at room temperature with the raw yolk and the boiled yolks passed through the sieve. This step will add a delicious creaminess to your cookies. Combine the ingredients until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.
4. Adding the dry ingredients: Sift the flour, baking powder, and vanilla sugar over the butter and yolk mixture. Gently mix with a spatula. Then, gradually add the remaining flour, kneading by hand until you obtain a firm but manageable dough.
5. Shaping the cookies: Once the dough is ready, you can place it in a piping bag or, if you prefer, in a cookie press. If you choose the manual option, you can shape small balls of dough with your hands. Regardless of the method, place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper greased with a little butter.
6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 170-175 degrees Celsius. Bake the cookies for 13-15 minutes. It is important not to brown them too much; the bottom should be slightly brown. You can check a cookie by gently breaking it.
7. Cooling and decorating: After the cookies are baked, let them cool on a rack. You can choose to dust them with powdered sugar or add a chocolate glaze. A delicious idea is to sandwich two cookies with buttercream or chocolate.
Tips and suggestions
- Choose ingredients carefully: Use quality butter and natural vanilla sugar to get more flavorful cookies.
- Variations: You can customize these cookies by adding chopped nuts, chocolate, or even flavors like lemon or orange zest.
- Serving: This dessert pairs excellently with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also give them as gifts for special occasions or use them in various pastries.
- Storage: Cookies can be kept in an airtight container for a few days, but they are best fresh.
Nutritional information
These cookies are a quick source of energy due to the sugar and healthy fats from the butter. Each cookie contains approximately 70-80 calories, depending on their size and any additional ingredients used. Consume in moderation, especially if you are mindful of calorie intake!
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use store-bought egg whites?
Yes, you can use store-bought egg whites, but make sure they are of good quality to achieve a stable foam.
2. How can I make the cookies crunchier?
You can add a few extra minutes to the baking time, but be careful not to burn them.
3. What other flavors can I use?
Instead of vanilla sugar, you can try almond or coconut extract.
4. How can I prevent the cookies from becoming soft?
Make sure to store them in airtight containers only after they are completely cooled to prevent moisture buildup.
Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! Your cookies will surely become the stars of the table and bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Happy baking!
Ingredients: 3 egg whites, 4 tablespoons powdered sugar, 2 boiled egg yolks, 1 raw egg yolk, 100g butter, 1 cup plus 1/2 cup flour, 2 packets vanilla sugar, 1/2 teaspoon baking powder, a pinch of salt.
