Chai Cookies
Craving a sweet treat with a hint of warmth? These chai cookies are a delightful fusion of traditional chai spices and the comforting texture of freshly baked cookies. Perfect for pairing with your favorite cup of tea, these cookies will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Whether for a cozy gathering or a personal snack, they are sure to please everyone. Let’s dive into the recipe and create these delicious treats together!
Ingredients
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 12 cookies. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 10-12 minutes for baking.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 cookie): approximately 120 calories, 6g fat, 15g carbohydrates, 1g protein. This nutritional information is estimated for one cookie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with brown and granulated sugar until fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
10. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free version. Additionally, try using maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a unique flavor twist.
Serving and Pairings
These chai cookies pair beautifully with a cup of masala chai or any herbal tea. They also make a perfect snack for coffee breaks or afternoon treats.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag, and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using cold butter instead of softened can lead to dense cookies.
- Overmixing the dough can make cookies tough.
- Not measuring flour properly can affect texture.
- Skipping the cooling step can result in broken cookies.
- Underbaking may lead to a doughy center.
Helpful Tips
- For an extra crunch, add chopped nuts to the dough.
- Experiment with different spices to customize flavor.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform shapes.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
FAQs
Can I make chai cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it has a binding agent for the best results.
How long do chai cookies last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, chai cookies can last up to a week at room temperature or longer if frozen.
Can I add chocolate to chai cookies?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips or chunks can enhance the flavor and provide a delightful contrast to the spices.
What spices can I use in chai cookies?
You can use a variety of spices such as nutmeg, allspice, or even a chai spice blend to customize the flavor profile.
Are chai cookies suitable for gifting?
Yes, they make a wonderful gift! Package them in a decorative tin or box for a thoughtful homemade present.
Conclusion
Chai cookies are a delightful treat that combines the warmth of spices with the sweetness of cookies. They are simple to make and perfect for any occasion, whether enjoyed alone or shared with friends. Try this recipe and savor the comforting flavors of chai in every bite!
Chai Cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, cream the butter with brown and granulated sugar until fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
- Dust with powdered sugar before serving.