Bran Cookies

Introduction

History

The history of bran cookies dates back to the early 20th century when people started to recognize the health benefits of bran. Initially, bran was primarily used as animal feed, but its high fiber content soon made it a popular ingredient in health-conscious households. The recipe has evolved over the years, with various additions like nuts and dried fruits enhancing its flavor and nutritional value.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

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

- Make sure the shortening is at room temperature to achieve a creamy texture.

- Sift the flour before adding it to the mixture to prevent lumps.

- Grease your hands with oil when shaping the dough to prevent sticking.

- Do not overmix the dough to keep the cookies tender.

- Keep an eye on the cookies while baking to prevent over-browning.

Serving Suggestions

Bran cookies can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a comforting snack. They also make a great addition to a healthy breakfast, offering a quick and convenient source of energy.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is creaming the shortening with sugar, which introduces air into the mixture, resulting in lighter and softer cookies.

Ingredient Substitutions

Replace brown sugar with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index option.

- Use whole wheat pastry flour instead of regular pastry flour for an extra fiber boost.

- Swap currants with any dried fruit of your choice.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for bran cookies can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator before shaping and baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve bran cookies on a rustic wooden board for a charming and inviting presentation. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey for added elegance.

Pairing Recommendations

Bran cookies pair wonderfully with a robust black tea or a creamy latte, balancing the cookies' richness with the beverages' smoothness.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store bran cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of bran cookies contains approximately 100 calories, making them a relatively low-calorie option for a snack.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of bran cookies contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe comes from brown sugar and flour, providing the body with energy.

Fats

These cookies contain about 5 grams of fat per serving, mainly from the shortening and egg. The fats contribute to the cookies' moist and tender texture.

Proteins

Bran cookies offer a modest protein content of about 2 grams per serving, coming from the egg and nuts. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Bran is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, which are crucial for energy metabolism and overall health.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, nuts, and gluten. Those with allergies should take caution or make appropriate substitutions.

Summary

Overall, bran cookies are a nutritious snack option, providing a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals. They are relatively low in calories and can fit into a balanced diet.

Summary

Bran cookies are a delightful and nutritious treat that combines the goodness of bran with the sweetness of brown sugar and currants. This recipe is versatile, allowing for various substitutions and variations to suit different dietary needs and preferences. With their rich fiber content and essential nutrients, bran cookies are a healthy addition to any diet, perfect for snacking or as a quick breakfast option.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was given to me by a dear friend who had been making these delicious bran cookies for years. She had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I knew that I had to give it a try.

I had always loved baking, and trying out new recipes was one of my favorite pastimes. The thought of adding another delicious treat to my repertoire filled me with joy. So, on a bright and sunny morning, I gathered all the necessary ingredients and set to work in my cozy kitchen.

The recipe called for simple, wholesome ingredients like bran flakes, flour, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. As I mixed everything together in a large bowl, the sweet aroma of the vanilla filled the air. I couldn't wait to see how these cookies would turn out.

Once the dough was mixed to perfection, I scooped out spoonfuls and placed them on a baking sheet. The cookies went into the oven, and I eagerly watched as they began to rise and spread out into perfect little rounds. The smell that filled my kitchen was absolutely heavenly.

As the cookies baked, I thought back to all the recipes I had collected over the years. Each one held a special memory for me, whether it was a family recipe passed down through generations or a new creation I had stumbled upon in a cookbook. Baking had always been a way for me to connect with my loved ones and share something special with them.

When the timer chimed, I opened the oven door to reveal a tray of golden brown cookies. They looked perfect, with a slight crunch on the outside and a soft, chewy center. I couldn't wait to taste one.

I grabbed a cookie from the tray and took a big bite. The flavor was incredible – a perfect blend of sweet and nutty, with a hint of vanilla. I knew right away that this recipe would become a favorite in my household.

Over the years, I would make these bran cookies for family gatherings, potlucks, and just because. They always received rave reviews from everyone who tried them. I loved to see the smiles on their faces as they bit into a warm, freshly baked cookie.

As I continued to bake these cookies, I would think back to that first time I saw the recipe and how it had filled me with excitement. I was grateful to my friend for sharing it with me and for allowing me to pass it down to my own family.

Now, as I sit here in my kitchen, surrounded by the aroma of freshly baked cookies, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Baking has always been a way for me to express my love and creativity, and these bran cookies have become a beloved part of that tradition.

I am grateful for the recipes that have been shared with me over the years, and I look forward to passing them on to future generations. After all, food is more than just sustenance – it is a way to connect with others, to create memories, and to share a piece of ourselves with the world. And these bran cookies will always hold a special place in my heart as a reminder of that.

Categories

| Bran Recipes | Brown Sugar Recipes | Cookie Recipes | Currant Recipes | Egg Recipes | Molasses Recipes | Pastry Flour Recipes | Walnut Recipes |

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