Berry cookies

Goodies for carolers: Berry cookies

Every year, when the cold season wraps itself in a cloak of snow, a magical and joyful atmosphere envelops us. Carolers come with warm voices and smiles, bringing the tradition and spirit of the holidays into our homes. What could be more delightful than welcoming them with sweet treats made with love? Today, I propose a simple and delicious recipe for berry cookies, perfect for serving to carolers or enjoying alongside a cup of hot tea.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10-15 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 35 minutes (including cooling time)
Number of servings: Approximately 30 cookies

Necessary ingredients:

- 350 g frozen berries (raspberries, blackberries, blueberries – your favorite combination is your choice)
- 2 large eggs
- 150 g white sugar
- 150 g brown sugar (for a caramel note)
- 200 g butter (melted, brought to room temperature)
- 450 g flour (preferably type 000, for a fine texture)
- 1 packet of baking powder (approximately 10 g)
- a pinch of salt (to enhance the flavors)
- a vial of vanilla essence (for an inviting aroma)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the egg mixture: In a large bowl, crack the two eggs and, using a whisk or mixer, beat them lightly. Gradually add the white sugar and brown sugar. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes creamy and homogeneous. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt and the vanilla essence to enrich the flavor.

2. Sifting the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Sifting them will not only help eliminate any lumps but will also ensure an airy texture for the cookies. Once sifted, gradually add them to the egg and sugar mixture, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon.

3. Adding the butter: Once the dry ingredients are integrated, pour the melted butter over the mixture. Mix gently until homogeneous, being careful not to overheat the dough.

4. Incorporating the berries: Now comes the fun part! Add the thawed and drained berries. Use your hands to gently mix, being careful not to crush the berries, but just to distribute them evenly in the dough.

5. Chilling the dough: Form a ball from the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and place it in the refrigerator for about an hour. This step is essential for obtaining cookies that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

6. Shaping the cookies: After the chilling time has passed, preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate). Take small pieces of dough and shape them into balls that you gently flatten between your palms. Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to allow for rising.

7. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let the cookies bake for 10-15 minutes, or until they turn golden at the edges. Don’t forget to keep an eye on them, as every oven behaves differently!

8. Cooling: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a rack. This step will allow them to maintain their perfect shape and texture.

Serving suggestions:
These cookies can be enjoyed plain, but if you want to add a special touch, serve them with warm chocolate sauce or vanilla ice cream. Also, an herbal tea or spiced mulled wine pairs wonderfully with these treats.

Tips and useful advice:
- Use fresh or frozen berries, depending on the season. Frozen berries have the advantage of not spoiling as easily and are available year-round.
- If you want cookies with an even richer flavor, you can add a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough.
- These cookies can be easily frozen. Place them in freezer bags, and when you crave something sweet, take them out and let them thaw at room temperature.

Nutritional information:
Each cookie contains approximately 150 calories, being rich in carbohydrates and healthy fats from the butter. The berries provide a supply of vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet.

Berry cookies are not just a delight, but also a wonderful way to create memories with loved ones, whether you’re preparing a surprise for carolers or just indulging yourself. I invite you to try them and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 350 g frozen berries, 2 eggs, 150 g sugar, 150 g brown sugar, 200 g butter, 450 g flour, 1 packet baking powder, a pinch of salt, a vial of vanilla essence

 Tags:  berry cookies cookies forest fruits sweets biscuits goodies for carolers