Are you craving homemade cookies but short on time and ingredients? Alice's 5-Ingredient Cookie Recipe is the perfect solution for you! This recipe is designed to be quick, easy, and delicious, making it ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned cooks looking for a simple dessert fix. Let's dive into how you can make these scrumptious treats with just five essential components.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup of unsalted butter (softened)
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
📌 Note: For a richer taste, consider using brown butter in place of regular butter.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mixing
- Cream the butter and sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter with both granulated and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Add the dry ingredients: Gradually sift in the flour and baking soda, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a dough that is smooth but not too dense.
Shaping and Baking
- Form the cookies: Use a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop to drop balls of dough onto your prepared baking sheet. Leave about 2 inches of space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
- Bake: Place the cookies in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just starting to turn golden brown.
- Cool: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Pro Tips
- For a chewier texture, slightly underbake the cookies by taking them out when they still look a bit underdone in the center.
- If you want to add more flavors, consider mixing in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruits. Remember to add these after the base ingredients are well combined.
⚠️ Note: Baking time can vary; keep an eye on your cookies as every oven is different.
Variations
While Alice’s recipe is simple, you can make some easy variations:
| Variation | Addition |
|---|---|
| Chocolate Chip | 1⁄2 cup of chocolate chips |
| Nutty | 1⁄2 cup of chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts |
| Fruity | 1⁄4 cup of dried cranberries or raisins |
🌈 Note: For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough before adding the dry ingredients.
In wrapping up this journey into the world of quick and easy cookie making, Alice's 5-Ingredient Cookie Recipe proves that simplicity can indeed lead to delectable results. Whether you're baking for yourself, a quick snack, or an unexpected guest, these cookies come together in a snap, offering the warm, comforting taste of homemade treats without the usual fuss. By following these straightforward steps and tips, you've not only prepared cookies but also unlocked a recipe that's versatile, quick, and sure to be a staple in your baking repertoire.
Can I freeze the cookie dough?
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Yes, you can freeze the dough! Simply shape it into balls and freeze them on a baking sheet. Once they are firm, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How long do these cookies stay fresh?
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When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, these cookies will stay fresh for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze them individually first, then place in a freezer bag where they’ll last up to 3 months.
What if I want gluten-free cookies?
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Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix. Be sure to check if it contains any raising agents; if not, you might need to adjust the baking soda or add some xanthan gum to improve the texture.
