These delightful mint cookies are a refreshing and unique treat that are sure to impress. Combining the aromatic flavor of mint with the sweetness of a classic cookie, this recipe is a perfect addition to your baking repertoire. Follow these detailed instructions to make your own batch of these delicious cookies.
Ingredients:
- 30 grams of mint leaves
- ½ cup of sugar
- 1 whole egg
- 100 grams of butter, at room temperature
- 1 very full cup of wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mint Mixture:
- Combine Mint and Sugar: In a large bowl, add 30 grams of fresh mint leaves and ½ cup of sugar. Mix them together until the sugar is well infused with the mint, releasing the mint’s aromatic oils. You can use a mortar and pestle to crush the mint leaves into the sugar for a more intense flavor.
2. Create the Dough:
- Add Egg and Butter: Crack 1 whole egg into the mint-sugar mixture. Add 100 grams of room-temperature butter to the bowl. Use a hand mixer or whisk to blend these ingredients until they form a smooth and creamy consistency. The butter should be fully incorporated, and the mixture should be light and fluffy.
- Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add 1 very full cup of wheat flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder to the mixture. Stir continuously until the flour is fully integrated and a soft dough forms. The dough should be easy to handle and slightly sticky but not too wet.
3. Shape the Cookies:
- Form Dough Balls: Using your hands, take small portions of dough and roll them into balls. Aim for a size slightly larger than a marble, ensuring uniformity for even baking. Place each ball onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or non-stick baking paper. Leave some space between the cookies as they will spread slightly during baking.
4. Bake the Cookies:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Bake Cookies: Place the baking sheet with the dough balls into the preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden on the edges. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking, as they can turn brown quickly.
5. Cool and Serve:
- Cool Cookies: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. This allows them to firm up and makes them easier to transfer. Then, move the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Once cooled, transfer the cookies to a serving dish. Enjoy them with a fresh cup of coffee or tea for a delightful treat.
Cooking Notes:
- Mint Infusion: For a stronger mint flavor, you can pulse the mint leaves with the sugar in a food processor to create a finer mixture that distributes more evenly in the dough.
- Butter Consistency: Ensure the butter is at room temperature to make it easier to mix with the sugar and mint. Cold butter can make the dough too stiff and hard to work with.
- Baking Time: Keep a close watch on the cookies while they bake. They should be slightly golden on the edges but still soft in the center when you remove them from the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use dried mint instead of fresh mint?
- While fresh mint provides a vibrant flavor, you can use dried mint if necessary. Use about 1 tablespoon of dried mint leaves, and make sure to crush them finely to release their flavor.
2. How should I store these cookies?
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To keep them fresh longer, you can also freeze them. Place the cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
3. Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
- Yes, chocolate chips can be a delicious addition to these mint cookies. Fold in about ½ cup of chocolate chips to the dough before shaping the cookies for a mint-chocolate flavor combination.
4. What can I serve with these cookies?
- These cookies are perfect on their own but also pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. Serve them with coffee, tea, hot chocolate, or even a glass of milk. They also make a great addition to a dessert platter.
5. Can I make this recipe vegan or gluten-free?
- To make this recipe vegan, replace the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water) and use a plant-based butter substitute. For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Enhancing the Flavor:
- Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon or lime zest to the dough for a bright, citrusy twist that complements the mint flavor.
- Herbal Infusion: Infuse the butter with mint by gently heating the butter with the mint leaves, then cooling it before adding it to the sugar mixture. This can intensify the mint flavor.
- Mint Extract: For an extra boost of mint, add a few drops of mint extract to the dough along with the fresh mint leaves.
This refreshing mint cookie recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the fresh flavor of mint in a sweet treat. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your household.
Try making these delightful mint cookies at home and share your experience! If you enjoy discovering and sharing amazing recipes, leave a comment saying “I love mint cookies” and share this with your friends and family. Happy baking!
Enjoy preparing and savoring these delightful mint cookies, and impress your family and friends with this unique and refreshing treat!
