Holidays call for special treats that bring a touch of warmth and nostalgia to our homes. Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe that combines the crunch of traditional Chinese noodles with the sweetness of cookies – Chinese Noodle Cookies! These unique cookies are not only pleasing to the eye but also a delicious addition to any dessert table. With a satisfying blend of flavors and textures, they are sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover the joy of baking these delightful treats.
**Chinese Noodle Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup Chinese noodles (crispy chow mein noodles)
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans or almonds (optional for added crunch)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and ensure they bake evenly.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:**
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside for later.
3. **Cream 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 achieving the right consistency in your cookie dough.
4. **Add Egg and Vanilla:**
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture until well combined. The egg helps bind the ingredients together, while the vanilla adds a beautiful aroma to the cookies.
5. **Incorporate Dry Ingredients:**
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth cookie dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
6. **Fold in Noodles and Chocolate:**
Gently fold in the Chinese noodles, chocolate chips, and chopped nuts (if using) into the cookie dough. The noodles add a delightful crunch, while the chocolate chips bring a sweet surprise in every bite.
7. **Shape Cookies:**
Using a spoon or cookie scoop, portion out the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon to ensure even baking.
8. **Bake to Perfection:**
Bake the Chinese Noodle Cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep an eye on them as baking times may vary depending on your oven.
9. **Cool and Enjoy:**
Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. These cookies are best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, or shared with loved ones during festive gatherings.
These Chinese Noodle Cookies are a delightful blend of crunchy, sweet, and simply irresistible. They make a charming addition to cookie exchanges, holiday parties, or a cozy night in by the fireplace. The next time you’re in the mood for a unique baking adventure, give this recipe a try and treat yourself to a taste of something special. Happy baking!
