Chai Cookies
Indulge your senses with chai cookies, a delightful treat that marries the warmth of spices with the sweetness of cookies. These baked delights are perfect for an afternoon tea or as a comforting snack. With a hint of cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger, chai cookies evoke the essence of traditional chai tea. Whether enjoyed with a hot beverage or on their own, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 24 cookies. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 12-15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each cookie (about 30g) contains approximately 120 calories, 5g fat, 18g carbohydrates, 1g protein, and 10g sugars. This nutritional information is for one cookie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
7. Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each.
8. Flatten each ball slightly with your fingers.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
10. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute coconut oil for butter for a dairy-free option. Also, use gluten-free flour to make these cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Serving and Pairings
These chai cookies pair wonderfully with a cup of chai tea, coffee, or even a glass of milk. They can also be served alongside other baked goods for a delightful dessert platter.
Storage and Reheating
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a warm oven for a few minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the dough, as this can make the cookies tough.
- Ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh for the best rise.
- Watch the baking time closely to avoid over-baking.
- Let cookies cool completely before dusting with powdered sugar.
- Use a cookie scoop for uniform cookie sizes.
Helpful Tips
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cloves.
- For a stronger chai flavor, steep tea bags in the butter before mixing.
FAQs
Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the right texture and flavor are maintained.
How can I make these cookies more spiced?
Add extra ground spices such as nutmeg or black pepper to enhance the chai flavor profile.
Can I store these cookies in the fridge?
While it’s best to store them at room temperature, you can keep them in the fridge for a short time; just ensure they are well-sealed.
What should I serve these cookies with?
These cookies go perfectly with chai tea, coffee, or milk, making them an ideal snack or dessert.
How long can I freeze these cookies?
You can freeze the cookies for up to three months. Make sure they are in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
Conclusion
Chai cookies are a delightful treat that combines the aromatic spices of chai with the sweetness of cookies. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are easy to make and will surely be a hit with friends and family. Enjoy them with your favorite beverage for a comforting experience!
Chai Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, spices, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls.
- Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each.
- Flatten each ball slightly with your fingers.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
- Let the cookies cool on a wire rack, then dust with powdered sugar before serving.
