Vanilla Wafers

Vanilla Wafers Recipe - Delicious Homemade Cookies from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 12

Introduction

Vanilla wafers are a classic and beloved treat that are perfect for snacking or using in various dessert recipes. These light and crispy cookies have a delicious vanilla flavor that pairs well with a variety of dishes.

History

Vanilla wafers have been a popular snack for many years, with their origins dating back to the late 19th century. Originally known as "vanilla wafers," these cookies were first created as a way to use up leftover ingredients in the kitchen. Over time, the recipe evolved and became a staple in many households.

Ingredients

0.33 cup butter and lard in equal proportions
0.25 cup milk
2 cups flour
1 cup sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1 egg
0.5 tsp salt
2 tsp vanilla

How to prepare

First, cream the butter. Then, add sugar, beaten egg, milk, and vanilla.
Mix and sift the dry ingredients, and add them to the first mixture.
Toss one-fourth of the mixture on a floured board and roll it as thinly as possible. Shape it with a small round cutter that has been dipped in flour.
Place the shaped dough pieces close together on a buttered sheet, and bake them in a moderate oven.
Gather up the trimmings and roll them with another portion of dough.
During rolling, keep the bowl containing the mixture in a cool place. Otherwise, it may be necessary to add more flour to the dough, which will result in hard cookies instead of crisp and short ones.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a warm and spicy flavor.
Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
Use almond extract instead of vanilla for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cream the butter thoroughly before adding the other ingredients to ensure a light and fluffy texture.

- Rolling the dough thinly will result in crispier cookies, while thicker dough will yield softer cookies.

- Keep the dough and bowl in a cool place while rolling to prevent the need for additional flour, which can make the cookies hard.

- Be sure to space the shaped dough pieces close together on the baking sheet to prevent them from spreading too much during baking.

Serving Suggestions

Vanilla wafers can be enjoyed on their own as a snack or paired with a cup of tea or coffee. They also make a great addition to desserts like banana pudding or ice cream sundaes.

Cooking Techniques

Creaming the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy is essential for a tender cookie.

- Rolling the dough thinly and baking at a moderate temperature will result in crispy wafers.

Ingredient Substitutions

Margarine can be used in place of butter for a dairy-free option.

- Almond or soy milk can be used instead of cow's milk for a dairy-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for vanilla wafers can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply roll out and bake as needed.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the vanilla wafers on a decorative plate or in a glass jar for a charming presentation. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

Vanilla wafers pair well with a variety of beverages, such as coffee, tea, or milk. They also complement fruity desserts like strawberry shortcake or peach cobbler.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store vanilla wafers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven for a few minutes to crisp them up.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of vanilla wafers contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of vanilla wafers contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of vanilla wafers contains approximately 6 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of vanilla wafers contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Vanilla wafers are not a significant source of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

Vanilla wafers contain dairy (butter and milk) and eggs.

Summary

Vanilla wafers are a delicious treat that are relatively low in protein and high in carbohydrates and fats. They are best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

Vanilla wafers are a delightful treat that are easy to make and perfect for snacking or using in desserts. With a light and crispy texture and a delicious vanilla flavor, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy them on their own or as part of a delicious dessert creation.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Vanilla Wafers. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy little kitchen. Martha was known in our small town for her delicious baked goods, and I always looked forward to our baking sessions together.

As we sipped on cups of steaming hot tea, Martha suddenly pulled out a faded, yellowed recipe card from a recipe box that sat on her countertop. She handed it to me with a mischievous smile and said, "I have a feeling you're going to love this one."

I took the recipe card in my hands and read through the list of ingredients and instructions. It seemed fairly simple and straightforward, but there was something about it that intrigued me. Martha must have noticed the spark in my eyes because she urged me to give it a try.

With Martha's guidance, I gathered the ingredients and measured them out carefully. I creamed the butter and sugar together, added the eggs one by one, and then mixed in the flour and vanilla extract. The dough came together beautifully, and I rolled it out into small balls before flattening them with a fork.

As the cookies baked in the oven, a wonderful aroma filled Martha's kitchen. The sweet scent of vanilla wafted through the air, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished product. When the timer went off, I pulled the golden brown wafers out of the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

Martha and I sat down at her kitchen table, our cups of tea long forgotten, as we sampled the freshly baked Vanilla Wafers. They were crisp and buttery, with a hint of vanilla that danced on my taste buds. I couldn't believe how delicious they were, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own kitchen.

After that day, I made Martha's Vanilla Wafers countless times. I brought them to potlucks and family gatherings, and they were always a hit. People would ask me for the recipe, and I would proudly pass it along, knowing that it had been passed down to me by my dear friend.

Over the years, I made a few tweaks to the recipe, adding a touch of cinnamon or a sprinkle of sea salt to make it my own. But the basic ingredients and method remained the same, a testament to the simplicity and timelessness of this beloved recipe.

As I grew older, Martha's Vanilla Wafers became a comforting reminder of our friendship and the joy we shared in the kitchen. Whenever I baked a batch, memories of that warm summer day would flood back to me, and I would smile as I savored each crispy bite.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, with the scent of freshly baked Vanilla Wafers wafting through the air, I am grateful for the recipe that brought me so much joy and connected me to my dear friend. I may have stumbled upon it by chance, but it has become a cherished part of my culinary repertoire, a reminder of the power of friendship and the simple pleasures of baking.