Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground mahleb
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Special Equipment:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, powdered sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
3. Add in the flour, mahleb, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground mahleb
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Special Equipment:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Cookie cutters
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter, powdered sugar, and salt until light and fluffy.
3. Add in the flour, mahleb, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Time:
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (180°C)
Serving size: Makes about 24 cookies
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Protein: 1g
- Sodium: 25mg
- Sugar: 3g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Mahleb can be substituted with ground cardamom or cinnamon.
- All-purpose flour can be substituted with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Variations:
- Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough for added texture and flavor.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before creaming it with the sugar and salt.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it out to make it easier to handle.
- Use a sharp cookie cutter to ensure clean edges on the cookies.
Storage Instructions:
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating Instructions:
- To reheat the cookies, place them in a 350°F (180°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve the cookies on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprinkle of ground mahleb.
Garnishes:
- Top the cookies with a dollop of whipped cream and a cherry for a festive touch.
Pairings:
- Serve the cookies with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Serve the cookies alongside a fruit salad or cheese plate for a sweet and savory snack.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk to help it come together.
- If the cookies are spreading too much during baking, chill the dough for an additional 10-15 minutes before baking.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all equipment thoroughly before starting to bake.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container to prevent contamination.
Food History:
- Mahleb is a spice made from the ground seeds of the cherry tree. It is commonly used in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine.
Flavor Profiles:
- Mahleb has a sweet and nutty flavor that pairs well with buttery shortbread cookies.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the cookies as a dessert or snack for any occasion.
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Region: Turkish