Basic Cookies

Introduction

History

The tradition of baking cookies dates back centuries, with each culture adding its unique twist. This Basic Cookies recipe draws inspiration from early American baking, where simple, hearty ingredients were used to create comforting and delicious treats. Over time, the recipe has been passed down and refined, embodying the essence of home baking with its simplicity and versatility.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your cookies come out perfectly, here are a few tips and tricks:

- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.

- Cream the shortening and sugar thoroughly for a light and fluffy texture.

- Roll the dough evenly for uniform baking.

- Keep an eye on the oven as baking times may vary slightly.

- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Serving Suggestions

These cookies are perfect on their own or with a glass of milk. For a special treat, pair them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or sandwich them with your favorite jam.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe uses creaming and rolling techniques, fundamental in cookie baking. Creaming incorporates air into the dough, while rolling ensures an even thickness for uniform baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Butter can be used instead of shortening for a richer flavor.

- Almond milk or oat milk can replace cow's milk for a dairy-free version.

- Gluten-free flour can be used for a gluten-free alternative.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Simply thaw (if frozen) and roll out when ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve these cookies on a vintage plate for a touch of nostalgia, or stack them in a clear jar tied with a ribbon for a charming gift.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a relaxing break. For a dessert pairing, a light, fruity wine like Moscato complements their sweetness beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months. There's no need to reheat, but if desired, a few seconds in the microwave can warm them slightly.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of these Basic Cookies contains approximately 200 calories. As with all treats, they are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of these Basic Cookies contains approximately 27 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe comes from the flour and sugar, providing the energy needed for your daily activities.

Fats

This recipe contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, with the majority coming from the shortening. Shortening is used in baking for its ability to create a tender and crumbly texture in cookies.

Proteins

Each serving of cookies offers around 3 grams of protein, mainly from the eggs and milk. While not a high-protein food, these cookies can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation.

Vitamins and minerals

These cookies provide small amounts of essential vitamins and minerals, such as calcium from the milk and iron from the flour. However, they should not be relied upon as a significant source of nutrients.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens, including gluten (flour), dairy (milk), and eggs. Those with allergies or sensitivities should take caution or seek alternative recipes.

Summary

Overall, these Basic Cookies are a delightful treat that, when consumed in moderation, can fit into a balanced diet. They provide a source of carbohydrates and fats, with minimal protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

This Basic Cookies recipe is a testament to the timeless appeal of homemade cookies. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it's a perfect way to introduce the joy of baking into your life. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore variations, these cookies are sure to bring smiles and sweetness to any occasion.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was hooked. It was a simple, no-frills recipe for Basic Cookies that I stumbled upon in an old cookbook that belonged to my mother. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could practically taste the warm, buttery cookies melting in my mouth. I knew that I had to try making them.

I had always loved baking, ever since I was a little girl helping my own grandmother in the kitchen. She taught me how to measure ingredients, mix batter, and watch the oven like a hawk to make sure nothing burned. I treasured those memories and the recipes she passed down to me.

As I got older, I started collecting recipes from all over the place – magazines, cooking shows, friends, and family. Each recipe had a story behind it, a memory attached to it that made it special. But there was something about this recipe for Basic Cookies that called out to me, beckoning me to give it a try.

I gathered all the ingredients – flour, sugar, butter, eggs, vanilla extract, baking soda, and salt – and set to work. I creamed the butter and sugar together until it was light and fluffy, then added the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. I sifted the dry ingredients together and gradually added them to the wet mixture, stirring until everything was well combined.

The dough was soft and pliable, just begging to be rolled into balls and placed on a baking sheet. I scooped out spoonfuls of dough, rolled them between my hands, and placed them on the sheet, leaving enough space for them to spread as they baked. I popped the tray into the oven, the sweet smell of vanilla and butter wafting through the air.

As the cookies baked, I watched them through the oven door, my mouth watering in anticipation. The timer dinged, and I pulled the tray out, the cookies golden brown around the edges and soft in the middle. I let them cool for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

I couldn't resist sneaking a cookie while it was still warm, the buttery goodness melting on my tongue. It was perfect – just the right amount of sweetness, with a hint of vanilla and a touch of salt to balance it all out. I knew right then and there that this would be a recipe I would make again and again.

I shared the cookies with my family, who devoured them in record time. They couldn't get enough of the simple, yet delicious treat. My kids begged me to make them again, and my husband declared them the best cookies he had ever tasted. I beamed with pride, knowing that I had found a recipe that would become a staple in our household.

Over the years, I continued to make the Basic Cookies recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my taste. Sometimes I added chocolate chips, other times I threw in some nuts or dried fruit. But no matter how I changed it, the cookies were always a hit.

I passed the recipe down to my own children, who now make the cookies with their own families. It warms my heart to see them carrying on the tradition, creating memories in the kitchen just like I did with my grandmother all those years ago.

So whenever I make a batch of Basic Cookies, I can't help but smile, remembering the first time I saw the recipe and how it changed my life. It may be a simple recipe, but to me, it's so much more than that – it's a connection to my past, a link to my loved ones, and a reminder of the joy that baking can bring. And for that, I will always be grateful.

Categories

| American Recipes | Cookie Recipes | Snack Recipes |

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