Seed Cookies
Seed Cookies - A Homemade Delicacy
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 20-25 cookies
Seed cookies are a healthy and delicious treat that can bring a smile to anyone's face. The origins of this recipe are shrouded in mystery, being a discovery of my mother, but what truly matters is the unmistakable taste and texture they offer. These cookies are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even to be served alongside a cup of fragrant tea.
Ingredients
- 150 g sunflower seeds (or a mix with almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts)
- 50 g whole wheat flour (or finely ground wheat flakes)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 125 g butter (at room temperature)
- 100 g brown sugar (or white sugar, honey)
- 1 egg (medium)
- 150 g oats
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 2 tablespoons flax seeds (optional, for added nutrition)
Necessary utensils
- Pan (for toasting the seeds)
- Food processor or blender
- Large bowl (for mixing the ingredients)
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
Step by Step
1. Preparing the seeds:
Start by toasting the sunflower seeds. Place them in a dry pan and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until they begin to brown slightly and release their rich aroma. This process doesn’t take long, so be careful not to burn them. Once done, let them cool slightly before grinding.
2. Grinding the seeds:
Use a food processor or blender to grind the toasted seeds. Do not turn them into flour; you want to achieve coarser pieces so that the cookies have a pleasant texture. This step is essential to maintain the crunchiness of the cookies.
3. Mixing the dry ingredients:
In a bowl, combine the whole wheat flour with the baking powder and, if you choose, the ground flax seeds. This mixture will add a note of nutrition and an interesting texture. If you don’t have flour, don’t worry! You can use finely ground wheat flakes.
4. Creating the dough:
In another bowl, beat the soft butter with the brown sugar until it becomes a fluffy cream. Add the egg and continue mixing until well incorporated. Add the vanilla sugar, the mixture of ground seeds, and the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to mix well, and then switch to using your hands to form a homogeneous dough. Don’t be alarmed if the dough is a bit sticky; this is the texture we’re looking for!
5. Shaping the cookies:
Let your creativity flow! Take a portion of dough and form balls, then gently flatten them into your desired shapes. You can create round, square cookies, or even various patterns. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them to expand during baking.
6. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the cookies for 25-30 minutes or until the edges turn golden and slightly crispy. It’s important not to leave them too long, as they will continue to harden after you take them out of the oven.
7. Cooling and serving:
Let the cookies cool on the tray for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Enjoy them plain or with a glass of milk, tea, or coffee. These cookies are also perfect for sharing with friends or family during a pleasant gathering.
Variations and Suggestions
If you want to adapt this recipe, you can experiment with different types of seeds and nuts. For example, add almonds or hazelnuts for a new flavor. Additionally, you can incorporate raisins or other dried fruits to add a touch of natural sweetness. Don’t forget to peel the nuts to avoid a bitter taste!
Practical Tips
- Storage: The cookies keep well in an airtight container for a few days. If you want to keep them even longer, you can freeze them.
- Nutrition: These cookies are rich in protein and fiber, providing you with a healthy and nourishing snack. Sunflower seeds are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals.
- Calories: Each cookie contains approximately 100-120 calories, depending on the ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of sugar?
Sure! White sugar, coconut sugar, or honey are all excellent alternatives.
Can I adapt the recipe according to dietary preferences?
Yes, you can make the cookies gluten-free using almond flour or coconut flour and can use coconut oil instead of butter for a vegan option.
What drinks pair best with these cookies?
Seed cookies pair excellently with flavored teas, warm milk, or even a strong espresso.
These seed cookies are not only a delicious snack but also an excellent way to add nutrients to your daily diet. So grab the ingredients and enjoy a flavorful culinary experience!
Ingredients: 150 g sunflower seeds (you can mix them with almonds, walnuts, etc.) 50 g whole wheat flour (I didn't have flour but I had wheat cereal and I ground it. I also added 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseeds) 1 teaspoon baking powder 125 g butter 100 g brown sugar (normal sugar or honey can also be used) 1 egg 150 g oatmeal 1 packet of vanilla sugar