Chai Cookies
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of chai cookies, a delightful treat that combines the rich spices of traditional chai with a soft, chewy cookie. These cookies are not just a delicious snack; they evoke the cozy feeling of sipping chai on a chilly day. Perfect for sharing with family or enjoying with a cup of your favorite tea, chai cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 24 cookies. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is 10-12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
One serving (1 cookie) contains approximately 150 calories, 8g fat, 20g carbohydrates, 1g protein, and 10g sugar. This is based on a standard cookie size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves, and salt.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Flatten each cookie slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
10. Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Additionally, coconut sugar can replace granulated sugar for a healthier alternative.
Serving and Pairings
Chai cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of chai tea or coffee. They also make a delightful addition to dessert platters or cookie assortments during gatherings.
Storage and Reheating
Store chai cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overmix the dough to avoid tough cookies.
- Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, for the right texture.
- Measure your ingredients accurately for consistent results.
- Allow cookies to cool on the sheet before transferring them to avoid breaking.
- Always preheat your oven to ensure even baking.
Helpful Tips
- Experiment with different spices for a unique flavor.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes for thicker cookies.
- Add chopped nuts for extra crunch.
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
FAQs
Can I use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar?
Yes, brown sugar can add a deeper flavor and moisture to the cookies, making them chewier.
What can I substitute for butter?
You can use coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
How can I make these cookies spicier?
Increase the amounts of ginger or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
Are chai cookies suitable for kids?
Absolutely! They are a fun and flavorful treat that kids will love, especially with a glass of milk.
How do I know when the cookies are done?
The edges should be slightly golden, and the centers will look a bit soft. They will firm up as they cool.
Conclusion
Chai cookies are a delightful fusion of flavors that bring warmth and comfort to any occasion. Whether enjoyed with a cup of tea or shared with friends, these cookies are bound to impress. Try making them today and experience the joy of baking with spice!
Chai Cookies
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar for dusting
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and cloves.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
- Flatten each cookie slightly with the bottom of a glass.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
- Dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
