Homemade cookies

Homemade Cookies: Delicious Recipe for Indulgent Moments

Cooking at home is not just a necessity, but also an art that connects us to pleasant memories and moments spent with loved ones. Homemade cookies are a perfect choice to add a touch of love and warmth to every day. This simple and quick cookie recipe is ideal for any occasion, whether you're preparing for a gathering with friends or simply want to treat yourself to a homemade dessert.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 30-32 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 20 cookies

Ingredients:
- 150 g butter (preferably at room temperature)
- 160 ml milk
- 1 egg (preferably at room temperature)
- 200 g sugar
- 1 packet of baking powder (approximately 10 g)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (or one teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- 100 g rice flour
- 500 g all-purpose flour (you may need a little more)
- A pinch of salt

The history of homemade cookies is rich in traditions, with each culture having its own version. From crunchy cookies to softer ones, they have been made for generations to bring smiles to the faces of loved ones. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a dessert that will surely become a family favorite.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by adding the softened butter to a large bowl. Use a mixer to beat it at medium speed, along with the sugar, vanilla sugar, and salt, for about 3-5 minutes, until the mixture becomes creamy and fluffy. This step is essential for achieving fluffy and delicious cookies, so don't rush!

2. Adding the egg:
Add the egg to the mixture and mix again for 2-3 minutes. The egg will help bind the ingredients and contribute to the final texture of the cookies.

3. Including the milk:
Carefully pour in the milk and mix well until the ingredients are fully integrated.

4. Combining the flours:
In another bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, rice flour, and baking powder. Then, gradually add this mixture to the bowl with the wet ingredients. Start kneading the dough by hand until it becomes homogeneous and easy to handle. You may need more flour, so add it gradually, a handful at a time, until the dough no longer sticks to your hands.

5. Shaping the cookies:
On a lightly floured work surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1 cm. Use a serrated roller to cut the cookies into square shapes (or any shape you desire). If you don’t have a serrated roller, a regular knife will work just as well!

6. Making holes in the cookies:
It’s time to create those little holes in the center of the cookies. You can use a skewer or, if you have a special tool, feel free to use it. These holes will not only look attractive but will also help with even baking.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and put them in the oven for 10-12 minutes. Be careful! The cookies bake very quickly, so it’s important to keep an eye on them to avoid burning.

8. Cooling:
Once the cookies are lightly browned on the edges, remove them from the oven and let them cool on a rack. This will help maintain their crunchy texture.

Serving and suggestions:
Homemade cookies are delicious served plain, but you can enhance them with a chocolate glaze or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a more festive look. You can enjoy them alongside a cup of tea or coffee, turning them into a perfect dessert for relaxing afternoons.

Possible variations:
- You can add ingredients such as chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits to the dough for a personalized touch.
- If you want a healthier version, you can replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.

Nutritional benefits:
These homemade cookies are a source of energy due to the sugar and butter, but remember that moderation is key. You can add healthy ingredients to improve the nutritional profile, such as nuts or seeds.

Calories:
One cookie contains approximately 100-120 calories, depending on size and ingredients.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I replace butter with margarine?
Yes, you can use margarine for a lactose-free version, but the taste will be slightly different.

2. How can I store the cookies?
You can keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for a few days.

3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, the cookies can be frozen! Make sure they are completely cooled before wrapping them in plastic wrap.

Homemade cookies are a wonderful way to bring a smile to the faces of loved ones and create unforgettable memories around the table. So put on an apron and start your culinary adventure! Enjoy!