Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp ammonia (ammonium carbonate)
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
Special equipment needed:
- Electric mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Add the lemon zest and ammonia, and beat until well combined.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the lemon juice, and beat until just combined.
7. Drop the dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 30-35 minutes
5. Temperature:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
Serving size:
This recipe makes about 24 cookies.
Nutritional information:
Each cookie contains approximately:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 11g
- Protein: 1g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can substitute the lemon zest with orange or lime zest.
- If you don't have ammonia, you can use baking powder instead (but the texture and flavor will be slightly different).
- You can use salted butter instead of unsalted butter, but adjust the amount of salt accordingly.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 cup chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts) to the dough for extra crunch.
- Replace the lemon juice with orange juice or grapefruit juice for a different flavor.
- Add 1 tsp vanilla extract to the dough for a more complex flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature before beating it with the sugar, or the dough may not come together properly.
- Don't overmix the dough, or the cookies may become tough.
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop the dough onto the baking sheet, and flatten them slightly with your fingers.
- Let the cookies cool completely before dusting them with powdered sugar, or the sugar may melt.
Storage instructions:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating instructions:
You can warm up the cookies in the microwave for a few seconds, or in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5 minutes.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the cookies on a platter or cake stand, and dust them with powdered sugar. You can also garnish them with fresh lemon slices or mint leaves.
Garnishes:
Fresh lemon slices, mint leaves, or edible flowers.
Pairings:
These cookies pair well with a cup of tea or coffee.
Suggested side dishes:
These cookies are a dessert on their own, but you can serve them with fresh fruit or ice cream for a more indulgent treat.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or lemon juice to moisten it.
- If the cookies spread too much during baking, chill the dough in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking.
- If the cookies are too hard or dry, reduce the baking time by a few minutes.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use fresh ingredients, and wash your hands and utensils thoroughly before preparing the dough. Store the cookies in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food history:
Ammonia cookies (also known as "smell cookies" or "stink cookies") are a traditional Italian cookie that dates back to the 19th century. They are made with ammonium carbonate, a leavening agent that gives the cookies a unique texture and aroma.
Flavor profiles:
These cookies are sweet and tangy, with a subtle lemon flavor and a hint of ammonia. The texture is crisp and crumbly, with a slightly chewy center.
Serving suggestions:
Serve these cookies as a snack or dessert, or bring them to a potluck or party. They are also a great gift for friends and family.
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Taste: Tangy, Sour, Citrusy, Ammonia, Ammonia-Like