In the vast tapestry of Southern cuisine, benne cookies stand out as a delectable testament to the region's rich culinary heritage. These crisp-edged, chewy-centered cookies derive their unique flavor from the addition of toasted benne seeds, also known as sesame seeds, a staple ingredient in Southern cooking. The nutty, buttery flavor of the benne seeds pairs harmoniously with the sweetness of the cookie dough, creating a taste sensation that is both familiar and uniquely Southern. This article presents a collection of benne cookie recipes, each offering a distinct take on this classic treat. From the traditional to the innovative, these recipes showcase the versatility of benne seeds and highlight their ability to elevate simple ingredients into something extraordinary. Whether you prefer a classic benne cookie with a touch of nostalgia or a modern interpretation with unexpected flavor combinations, this article has a recipe that will satisfy your cravings.
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BENNE COOKIES
I got this recipe from my Aunt Sue, a great cookie baker. Be sure not to make them too big or too close together or you'll end up with one big cookie.
Provided by BECKE
Categories Desserts Cookies Drop Cookie Recipes
Yield 42
Number Of Ingredients 7
Steps:
- Cream together the butter and the brown sugar. Beat in the eggs. Sift together the baking powder and the flour and mix in. Stir in the sesame seeds and vanilla.
- Drop by teaspoon on a cookie sheet lined with wax paper. Bake at 325 degrees F (165 degrees C) for about 25 - 30 minutes.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 86 calories, Carbohydrate 11 g, Cholesterol 17.6 mg, Fat 4.4 g, Fiber 0.3 g, Protein 1 g, SaturatedFat 2.3 g, Sodium 32.1 mg, Sugar 7.7 g
BROWN SUGAR BENNE COOKIES
Number Of Ingredients 8
Steps:
- 1. To make the cookies: Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly and set aside.2. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking soda until well blended.3. In a large saucepan over low heat, combine the shortening and water, stirring occasionally until the shortening melts. Remove from the heat and stir in the brown sugar. Stir in the sesame seeds until blended. Stir in the flour mixture. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto the prepared baking sheet. (If the dough begins to thicken, form the cookies with your hands.)4. Bake until the cookies are set and are no longer shiny, about 12 minutes. Let the cookies firm and cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a rack to cool completely (or slip the parchment paper with the cookies onto the rack to cool).Serving Size: 2 cookiesVariationTo make Sweet Pumpkin and Sesame Seed Cookies, follow the main recipe, stirring in 1/2 cup lightly toasted pumpkin seeds with the sesame seeds. (Toast the pumpkin seeds as you did the sesame seeds.) Proceed as directed.From Holiday Baking. Text copyright © 2005 by Sara Perry. Photographs copyright © 2005 by Leigh Beisch. All rights reserved. First published by Chronicle Books LLC, San Francisco, California.
Nutrition Facts : Nutritional Facts Serves
Tips:
- Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure precise measurements, as accurate proportions are crucial for successful baking.
- Chilling the Dough: For crispier cookies, chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to develop and prevents the cookies from spreading too much.
- Baking Temperature: Preheat the oven to the specified temperature before baking the cookies. Maintaining the correct temperature ensures even baking and prevents under or overcooked cookies.
- Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cookies during baking and adjust the baking time as needed. The edges of the cookies should be golden brown, while the centers should still be slightly soft.
- Cooling the Cookies: Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before storing them. This helps them to set properly and prevents them from becoming soggy.
Conclusion:
Benne cookies, also known as benne wafers or benne thins, are a delightful Southern treat that combines simple ingredients to create a crispy, flavorful cookie. With their nutty flavor and delicate texture, these cookies are a perfect accompaniment to a cup of coffee or tea. By following the tips and tricks provided in this recipe, you can easily create delicious benne cookies that will impress your friends and family. Whether you are a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a great way to explore the world of Southern baking and enjoy a taste of history.
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