These delicate cookies, with their unique ingredient of mayonnaise, offer a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a subtle tanginess that perfectly balances their sweetness. They are perfect for tea time, a light dessert, or a sweet treat anytime.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- This includes creaming the butter and sugar, mixing the dough, and shaping the cookies.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- This is the baking time for the cookies.
Total Time: 32-35 minutes
- This includes all preparation and cooking time.
Ingredients:
- 90g unsalted butter, softened
- 80g powdered sugar
- 80g mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or vanilla sugar to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 30g cornstarch
- 200g all-purpose flour
- 5g baking powder
Directions:
-
Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done with a hand mixer or stand mixer.
-
Add Mayonnaise, Vanilla, and Salt:
- Add the mayonnaise, vanilla extract (or vanilla sugar), and salt to the butter-sugar mixture.
- Mix until well combined and smooth.
-
Incorporate Egg:
- Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
-
Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, all-purpose flour, and baking powder.
-
Gradually Add Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed or by hand until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
-
Chill the Dough:
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will make the dough easier to handle.
-
Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
-
Shape the Cookies:
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator.
- You can either roll the dough out and cut out shapes with cookie cutters or form small balls of dough with your hands.
- If rolling out, roll the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness and cut out shapes.
- If forming balls, place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1-inch space between each cookie.
- You can lightly flatten the balls with the back of a spoon or a glass.
-
Bake the Cookies:
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- The cookies should still be soft in the center.
-
Cool and Serve:
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutritional Facts (Approximate per cookie, based on 24 cookies):
- Calories: 110-130
- Protein: 2-3g
- Fat: 7-9g
- Carbohydrates: 10-12g
- Sugar: 5-7g
The Origins and Popularity of This Recipe:
Shortbread cookies have a long history, originating in Scotland. The inclusion of mayonnaise in baking, while less traditional, has become a popular technique for adding moisture and tenderness. Mayonnaise, with its base of oil and eggs, acts as an emulsifier, contributing to a smooth and tender texture. This particular recipe combines the classic elements of shortbread with the unique addition of mayonnaise, creating a modern twist on a traditional treat. The popularity of this recipe stems from its simplicity, the use of readily available ingredients, and the resulting delicate texture. It’s a delightful surprise to many, showcasing how unconventional ingredients can create exceptional baked goods.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: The combination of cornstarch and mayonnaise creates an incredibly tender cookie.
- Unique Flavor: The subtle tanginess from the mayonnaise adds a delightful twist.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make it a breeze to prepare.
- Perfect for Tea Time: These delicate cookies are ideal for pairing with tea or coffee.
- Surprising Ingredient: The use of mayonnaise adds a fun and unexpected element.
Health Benefits:
- Moderate Calorie Count: Enjoyable in moderation as a sweet treat.
- Source of Energy: Carbohydrates provide energy.
Serving Suggestions:
- Tea Time: Serve with tea or coffee for a relaxing afternoon treat.
- Dessert Platter: Include on a dessert platter with other cookies and sweets.
- Gift Giving: Package in a decorative box or tin for a thoughtful gift.
- Snack: Enjoy as a light snack between meals.
Cooking Tips:
- Soften Butter: Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can result in tough cookies. Mix until just combined.
- Chill the Dough: Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle and prevents spreading.
- Use Parchment Paper: Parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing to prevent them from becoming soggy.
Variations to Try:
- Lemon Zest: Add lemon zest to the dough for a citrusy flavor.
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in mini chocolate chips for added sweetness.
- Nuts: Add chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for a nutty crunch.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor.
- Glaze: Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze.
Conclusion:
These mayonnaise shortbread cookies are a delightful and unique treat that’s sure to impress. With their tender texture and subtle tanginess, they are perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use margarine instead of butter?
- Yes, but butter provides a richer flavor.
- Can I use regular sugar instead of powdered sugar?
- Powdered sugar creates a smoother texture. Regular sugar may result in a grainy texture.
- Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
- Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.
- How do I store these cookies?
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
- Can I freeze the dough?
- Yes, wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using.
- Why are my cookies spreading too much?
- The dough may not have been chilled enough, or the oven temperature may be too low.
- Can I add food coloring?
- Yes, add a few drops of food coloring to the dough for colorful cookies.
- Can I use a stand mixer?
- Yes, a stand mixer with a paddle attachment works well.
- How do I prevent the cookies from burning?
- Keep an eye on the cookies and bake until lightly golden.
- Can I add extracts other than vanilla?
- Yes, almond extract or lemon extract are great alternatives.