Known for their delicate texture and nutty flavor, Authentic Italian Sesame Cookies are a delightful treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee. These cookies make for a lovely addition to any dessert platter or gift basket. With a simple list of ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can easily recreate the classic flavors of Italy in your own kitchen. Let’s get started on making these delicious and aromatic cookies!
**Authentic Italian Sesame Cookie**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it aside.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your cookies.
3. **Incorporate Dry Ingredients:** Add the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, and mix until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth cookie dough forms.
4. **Shape the Cookies:** Take a small amount of dough and roll it into a ball about the size of a walnut. Place the sesame seeds in a shallow dish. Roll each ball of dough in the sesame seeds, coating them evenly.
5. **Bake the Cookies:** Arrange the sesame-coated cookie balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Use your fingers to gently flatten each cookie slightly. This will help them bake evenly and achieve the characteristic shape of Italian sesame cookies.
6. **Bake and Cool:** Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. **Enjoy:** Serve these Authentic Italian Sesame Cookies with your favorite hot beverage or as a sweet treat on their own. These cookies are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Don’t hesitate to get creative with this recipe by adding a hint of citrus zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra flavor twist. These cookies are the perfect combination of crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply satisfy your sweet tooth, these Authentic Italian Sesame Cookies are sure to be a hit.
