Oh my goodness, let me tell you all about these Pure Vanilla Cookies. If I had to pick one cookie that embodies warmth, love, and comfort, it would undoubtedly be this one. There’s something so delightful about a simple vanilla cookie that just takes me back to my childhood kitchen, where the smell of freshly baked treats wafted through the air, drawing in family and friends. Whenever I bake these cookies, I can’t help but feel like I’m wrapping everyone in a cozy, sugary hug!
What makes these Pure Vanilla Cookies stand out is their incredible simplicity. The essence of vanilla shines like the star of the show, and you don’t need any fancy ingredients to whip them up. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy that sweet tooth, these cookies never disappoint. Plus, the best part? They’re super easy to make! So, let’s dive into this delicious journey together.
What’s in Pure Vanilla Cookies?
All-Purpose Flour: This is the backbone of any cookie, providing structure and that delightful texture. You’ll want a good quality flour for the best results.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetness alert! This helps the cookies spread and creates that lovely golden-brown color. I lean toward organic cane sugar, but any granulated sugar works just fine.
Baking Powder: A little leavening agent magic to ensure these cookies puff up perfectly!
Unsalted Butter: The richer the butter, the better the flavor! I prefer unsalted so that I can control the salt in the cookies, plus it gives that buttery goodness.
Pure Vanilla Extract: The star of the show! I always use pure vanilla extract rather than imitation, as it gives a deeper and more authentic flavor. If you can grab Madagascar vanilla, even better!
Egg: The binding agent that adds moisture and richness. You can even use a flax egg if you want a vegan version.
Salt: Just a pinch to balance everything out; it helps enhance the sweetness.
Is Pure Vanilla Cookie Good for You?
These cookies, while delicious, are definitely more of a treat than a health food, but guess what? That’s okay! Moderation is key.
Butter: Yes, it adds richness and flavor, but it’s also high in saturated fat. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can try using coconut oil or a nut butter, but be aware that it may change the flavor and texture slightly.
Vanilla Extract: This adds not just flavor but can also provide some antioxidants. Bonus points for feeling fancy!
That said, life is all about balance, right? Enjoy these cookies with a nice cup of tea or coffee, and you’ll feel cozy and satisfied.
Ingredients List
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
– 1 large egg
– A pinch of salt
This recipe yields about 24 cookies, depending on how big you like them!
How to Make Pure Vanilla Cookies?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Give it a little whisk to mix well.
3. In another bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add the egg and pure vanilla extract to the butter mixture, combining them thoroughly.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix!
6. Using a cookie scoop or spoon, drop dollops of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave some space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. The centers may seem soft, but they’ll firm up as they cool.
8. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Sweet Tips for Your Pure Vanilla Cookies
– If you’re a chocolate lover, consider adding some chocolate chips or chunks for a twist on the traditional flavor.
– These cookies are perfect for sandwiching some frosting or jam in between for a fab treat!
– Store your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature, and they’ll stay fresh for about a week. If they last that long!
Now that you’ve got this cozy recipe at your fingertips, I invite you to whip up a batch and take a moment to savor the delightful vanilla aroma. These cookies not only taste divine, but they also bring a little bit of joy to your day. So go ahead, share them with your loved ones or keep them all to yourself – I won’t tell! Happy baking!
