Lenten biscuits (plain or filled)
Lenten Cookies: Simple and Delicious Treats for Any Moment
When it comes to sweets, Lenten cookies are a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a sweet snack without breaking their fasting rules. These cookies can be savored at breakfast, alongside a cup of aromatic coffee or a glass of milk. Moreover, they are easy to prepare, and the recipe allows for many variations, so you can match your tastes.
A Brief History of Cookies
Cookies are an ancient invention, dating back to antiquity. They were originally used as provisions for travelers due to their durability. Over time, recipes have evolved, and today we have an impressive variety of sweet and savory cookies, each with unique characteristics. Lenten cookies pay homage to culinary tradition, being simple preparations but with a distinct flavor.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 400 g flour
- 200 g sugar
- 200 g margarine (or butter, for a richer flavor)
- 100 ml oil
- 100 ml bors (or lemon juice, for a subtle acidity)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda quenched with lemon juice
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt
- Grated zest of one orange (for extra flavor)
- Cocoa (optional, for variation)
For the filling (optional):
- Fruit jam (apricot, plum, raspberry)
- Vegan chocolate cream or any other preferred cream
Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Baking time: 35 minutes
- Total: 55 minutes
- Servings: 20 cookies
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the margarine is at room temperature for easier incorporation into the dough.
2. Mixing the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, vanilla sugar, and orange zest. Mix the dry ingredients well.
3. Adding the Wet Ingredients: Add the margarine and oil to the bowl with dry ingredients. Use a mixer or spatula to combine the ingredients until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.
4. Preparing the Bors: In another container, mix the bors with the baking soda quenched with lemon juice. This will help the dough rise and give it a fluffy texture. Add the mixture to the bowl with the wet ingredients.
5. Kneading the Dough: Start kneading the dough with your hands. If it is too sticky, you can gradually add flour until you achieve a firmer consistency. The dough should be soft but not stick to your hands.
6. Cocoa Variation: If you want chocolatey cookies, divide the dough in half and add cocoa to one half of the mixture. Knead well until the cocoa is fully incorporated, and the dough takes on a uniform color.
7. Shaping the Cookies: On a floured work surface, roll out the dough to about 1 cm thick. Use special cookie cutters to cut out the cookies or a glass if you don't have cutters handy.
8. Preparing the Tray: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a tray with a little oil and dust it with flour to prevent the cookies from sticking. Place the cookies on the tray, leaving a small space between them to allow for rising.
9. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for about 35 minutes, or until they turn golden. Be careful, as baking time may vary depending on your oven.
10. Cooling the Cookies: Once done, remove the tray from the oven and let the cookies cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a rack to cool completely.
Serving Suggestions
Lenten cookies are delicious both plain and filled. You can serve them alongside a cup of coffee or aromatic tea, or with a glass of plant-based milk. If you choose the filled version, you can add raspberry jam or even vegan chocolate cream for extra flavor.
Variations and Tips
- Flavored Cookies: You can experiment with different flavors by adding cinnamon, ginger, or nutmeg to the dough.
- Nut Cookies: Add chopped walnuts or almonds for extra crunch and nutrients.
- Decorative Cookies: After baking, you can glaze the cookies with melted chocolate or sprinkle powdered sugar for a festive look.
Calories and Nutritional Benefits
These Lenten cookies are a healthy option, with a moderate caloric value due to natural ingredients. Whole flour and vegetable oil provide fiber and healthy fats, while the addition of orange zest brings vitamins and antioxidants.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use another type of oil? Yes, you can use sunflower oil, coconut oil, or any other preferred oil.
- How can I keep the cookies fresh? Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They can stay fresh for several days.
- Can I freeze the cookies? Yes, the cookies can be frozen. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing them in an airtight container.
By experimenting with this recipe, you will discover that Lenten cookies are not just for those following a dietary regimen, but can be a tasty choice for anyone looking for a quick and healthy dessert. So, unleash your creativity in the kitchen and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!
All ingredients are mixed to prepare a firmer dough. If necessary, more flour can be added. In half of the mixture, cocoa can be added and kneaded until it takes on a brown color. A thick sheet of 1 cm is rolled out and cookies are cut out with special shapes (if not, a glass can also be used). The baking tray is greased with a little oil, dusted with flour, and placed in the preheated oven for 35 minutes (this also depends on the oven).
Ingredients: Dough: 400g flour, 200g sugar, 200g margarine, 100ml oil, 100ml bors, 1 teaspoon baking soda dissolved in lemon juice, rum essence, a sachet of vanilla sugar, a pinch of salt, a little orange zest, cocoa. Cream: any kind of cream (with jam or without).
