Introduction:
Homemade Vanilla Wafers are a classic treat that’s both nostalgic and versatile. These sweet and crisp cookies are perfect for dunking in milk, pairing with your favorite desserts, or even using as a key ingredient in various recipes. Making your own vanilla wafers allows you to enjoy the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked cookies and the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through making your own Homemade Vanilla Wafers, so you can savor the sweet simplicity of this delightful treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the room-temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This can take about 2-3 minutes.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, until fully incorporated.
- Stir in the pure vanilla extract.
Step 4: Mix the Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Mix until everything is well combined and a soft, sticky dough forms.
Step 5: Form and Bake the Cookies
- Drop rounded teaspoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- You can use the back of a spoon or your fingers to gently flatten the dough mounds into a cookie shape. The cookies will spread a bit while baking, so don’t flatten them too much.
Step 6: Bake the Cookies
- Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Enjoy Your Homemade Vanilla Wafers
- Once the cookies have cooled, they’re ready to enjoy. Store any leftovers in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Conclusion:
Homemade Vanilla Wafers are a delightful treat that you can enjoy on their own or use in a wide range of dessert recipes. Baking them from scratch allows you to experience the simple pleasure of freshly baked cookies and the wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen. Whether you’re sharing them with friends, using them in your favorite banana pudding, or savoring them with a glass of milk, these Homemade Vanilla Wafers are sure to bring a touch of sweetness to your day. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and create these sweet and simple delights in your own kitchen.