There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting through the house, especially when those cookies have a touch of cultural flair. If you’re looking to add a delightful twist to your cookie repertoire, then this recipe for Simple Ukrainian Cookies is just what you need. These treats are a perfect combination of sweet and buttery, with a hint of warmth from the cinnamon and nutmeg. Let’s get started on creating these delightful confections!
**Simple Ukrainian Cookie**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Pinch of salt
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure that your cookies bake evenly without sticking to the pan.
2. **Cream the butter and sugar:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a tender and airy cookie texture.
3. **Add the flavorings:** Mix in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to the butter and sugar mixture. These spices will give your Ukrainian cookies a warm and cozy flavor that’s perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea.
4. **Incorporate the flour:** Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix the dough, as this can result in tough cookies. A gentle hand is key to achieving a delicate and crumbly texture.
5. **Shape the cookies:** Using your hands, roll the cookie dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You can also use a cookie scoop for uniform sizing. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
6. **Bake to perfection:** Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time to prevent overcooking.
7. **Cool and dust with powdered sugar:** Once the cookies are baked to perfection, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Before serving, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a beautiful finishing touch.
Enjoy these Simple Ukrainian Cookies with a steaming cup of tea or coffee for a cozy and delicious treat that will transport you to Eastern Europe with every bite. These cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends or for indulging in all by yourself. With their delicate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, they are sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Happy baking!
