Vanilla Wafers are a classic and simple cookie that boasts a light, crisp texture and a delightful vanilla flavor. These small, round cookies are perfect for snacking, layering in desserts like banana pudding, or simply enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee. Their buttery sweetness and subtle vanilla aroma make them a favorite among all age groups. Making them from scratch allows for a more pronounced vanilla essence and a fresher taste than store-bought varieties. Whether used as an ingredient in more complex desserts or enjoyed on their own, homemade vanilla wafers are a versatile treat that’s easy to make and even easier to love.
Recipe: Vanilla Wafers
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Baking Sheets:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well until combined.
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined and a soft dough forms.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Drop teaspoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Gently flatten each dough ball slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies should be firm to the touch but not too brown.
- Cool:
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Store or Serve:
- Once cooled, store the vanilla wafers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or serve them as desired with your favorite dessert or beverage.
Homemade vanilla wafers are wonderfully crisp and flavorful, making them far superior to their store-bought counterparts. They can be enjoyed in various ways, adding a homemade touch that’s sure to impress. Whether layered into a luxurious dessert or eaten straight from the cookie jar, these wafers are a delightful treat.
