Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies

Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies Recipe from Central African Republic and Chad

Region / culture: Central African Republic, Chad | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies are a delicious treat that combines the classic flavors of sugar cookies with the crunch of nuts. These cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to afternoon snacks. The combination of sweet icing and nutty flavors will have your taste buds dancing with delight.

History

The recipe for Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies has been passed down through generations in many families. The addition of nuts to the traditional sugar cookie recipe adds a unique twist that sets these cookies apart from the rest. Whether enjoyed during the holidays or as a special treat any time of year, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them.

Ingredients

2.75 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
0.5 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
0.5 tsp ginger
1 cup softened butter
1 cup white sugar
0.5 cup packed brown sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla extract

Icing

1 cup confectioners' sugar
0.25 tsp vanilla extract
0.25 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp corn syrup
3 tsp milk

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a medium-sized bowl, stir together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and ginger. Set aside.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until smooth.
Beat in the egg and vanilla.
Gradually blend in the flour mixture. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls of dough into balls and place onto ungreased cookie sheets.
Bake for 8 to 10 minutes in the preheated oven, or until golden.
Let the cookies stand on the cookie sheet for two minutes before removing to cool on wire racks.

Icing

Whisk all the ingredients in a medium-sized bowl until smooth.
Add coloring, if desired.
If the icing is too thick, add more corn syrup.
Spread the icing onto cooled cookies using the back of a spoon or a clean fingertip, rather than a paintbrush, to avoid loose bristles coming off onto your cookies!
Let the icing dry for several hours, or until hardened.

Variations

For a different twist on Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies, try adding different types of nuts such as pecans, almonds, or pistachios. You can also experiment with different flavors of icing, such as lemon or almond, to create a unique and delicious cookie.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure that your Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies turn out perfectly every time, be sure to follow these cooking tips and tricks:

- Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature before creaming it with the sugar.

- Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies.

- Allow the cookies to cool completely before icing them to prevent the icing from melting.

- Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for longer.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies with a glass of cold milk or a hot cup of coffee for a delightful treat. These cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family during gatherings or as a special dessert after a meal.

Cooking Techniques

When making Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies, be sure to follow the instructions carefully to ensure that the cookies turn out perfectly. Pay attention to the baking time and temperature to prevent the cookies from burning or becoming too crispy.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are allergic to nuts, you can omit them from the recipe or substitute them with dried fruit or chocolate chips. You can also use margarine instead of butter for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the dough for Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This can save you time when you are ready to bake the cookies.

Presentation Ideas

To make Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies even more visually appealing, you can sprinkle chopped nuts or colored sugar on top of the icing. You can also use cookie cutters to create fun shapes and designs.

Pairing Recommendations

Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies pair well with a variety of beverages, including hot tea, hot chocolate, or a glass of wine. They can also be served alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for a delicious dessert.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If the cookies become stale, you can reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to restore their freshness.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies contains approximately 150 calories. While these cookies are a delicious treat, it's important to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help fuel your daily activities.

Fats

Each serving of Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies contains approximately 10 grams of fat. While fats are high in calories, they are essential for overall health and can help the body absorb certain vitamins.

Proteins

Each serving of Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies contains approximately 2 grams of protein. Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body, making it an essential nutrient for overall health.

Vitamins and minerals

Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies contain small amounts of various vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, and vitamin A. While these cookies should not be relied upon as a significant source of these nutrients, they can still contribute to your overall daily intake.

Alergens

Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies contain nuts, butter, and eggs, which are common allergens. If you or someone you are serving has allergies to these ingredients, be sure to take precautions and consider alternative options.

Summary

Overall, Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies are a tasty treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. While they are higher in fat and calories, they can still be a delicious indulgence for special occasions.

Summary

Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies are a delightful treat that combines the classic flavors of sugar cookies with the crunch of nuts. Whether enjoyed during the holidays or as a special dessert, these cookies are sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. With a few simple ingredients and some creative flair, you can whip up a batch of these delicious cookies to share with friends and family.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a cherished one. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my neighbor, Mrs. Jenkins, pick ripe pecans from her backyard tree. As a thank you, she invited me inside for a glass of lemonade and a plate of cookies. Little did I know, those cookies would change my life forever.

As I took a bite of the first cookie, my taste buds were instantly tantalized by the sweet and nutty flavors. The cookie was soft and chewy, with a hint of vanilla and a generous amount of crunchy nuts. I couldn't help but ask Mrs. Jenkins for the recipe.

She chuckled and told me that it was a family recipe that had been passed down through generations. She graciously agreed to share it with me, and I eagerly scribbled down the ingredients and instructions in my little recipe book.

From that moment on, I was hooked. I spent hours in my kitchen perfecting the recipe, tweaking it here and there until I had created my own version of Mrs. Jenkins' Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies. The cookies became a staple in my household, and everyone who tried them raved about how delicious they were.

Over the years, I continued to make these cookies for family gatherings, church events, and neighborhood bake sales. Each time, I received countless requests for the recipe, but I always kept it a closely guarded secret, just like Mrs. Jenkins had done before me.

As I grew older, I realized the importance of passing down family recipes to future generations. I wanted my children and grandchildren to experience the joy of baking these cookies and creating memories in the kitchen, just like I had with Mrs. Jenkins.

I remember the day I gathered my grandchildren in the kitchen and taught them how to make Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies. It was a chaotic scene, with flour flying everywhere and little hands eager to help mix the dough. But as we pulled the cookies out of the oven and drizzled them with sweet icing, I saw the pride and happiness in their eyes. They had created something special, just like I had all those years ago.

Now, whenever my grandchildren come to visit, they always ask to make Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies with me. It warms my heart to see them carrying on the tradition and creating their own memories in the kitchen. I know that one day, they will pass down the recipe to their own children, and the cycle will continue.

As I sit here reflecting on the journey that led me to discover this cherished recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the people who have shared their knowledge and love of cooking with me. Mrs. Jenkins, with her generous spirit and delicious cookies, will always hold a special place in my heart.

And so, I will continue to bake Nut Lover's Iced Sugar Cookies, sharing them with loved ones and keeping the tradition alive for generations to come. The sweet taste of nostalgia and the comforting crunch of pecans will always remind me of the day I discovered this beloved recipe, a memory that I will hold dear for the rest of my days.