Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 egg yolks
- 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg yolks one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
4. Gradually pour in the maple syrup and mix until well combined.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
6. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
7. If using, stir in the chopped pecans.
8. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Use a fork to press down on each ball to flatten slightly.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. 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
Total time: 35 minutes
Temperature:
350°F (180°C)
Serving size:
Makes approximately 24 cookies
Nutritional information:
Calories: 140
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 40mg
Sodium: 30mg
Carbohydrates: 14g
Sugar: 6g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Salted butter can be used instead of unsalted, but reduce the added salt to 1/8 tsp.
- Brown sugar can be used instead of granulated sugar for a slightly different flavor.
- Chopped walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans.
Variations:
- Add 1 tsp of cinnamon to the dough for a spiced flavor.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies for a decadent touch.
- Use a cookie cutter to cut the dough into different shapes before baking.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before mixing to ensure a smooth dough.
- Don't overmix the dough, or the cookies may become tough.
- If the dough is too sticky, refrigerate for 30 minutes before rolling into balls.
- Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Storage Instructions:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
Reheating Instructions:
The cookies can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5 minutes to crisp them up.
Presentation Ideas:
Arrange the cookies on a platter and dust with powdered sugar for a simple presentation.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the cookies before baking for added texture.
Pairings:
Serve the cookies with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a cozy treat.
Suggested Side Dishes:
These cookies are perfect on their own, but can also be served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert option.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cookies are spreading too much during baking, refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- If the cookies are too dry, try reducing the baking time by a minute or two.
Food Safety Advice:
Make sure to store the cookies in an airtight container to prevent them from going stale.
Food History:
Semprits are a traditional Latvian cookie, typically made with butter, sugar, and flour. This recipe adds a maple twist to the classic cookie.
Flavor Profiles:
The cookies have a buttery, slightly sweet flavor with a hint of maple.
Serving Suggestions:
These cookies are perfect for a holiday cookie exchange or as a sweet treat with a cup of tea.
Related Categories
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Region: Canadian
Taste: Sweet, Nutty, Crunchy, Maple, Maple-Flavored