Black sesame lean cookies

Ingredients

Cookies

300 grams (10.5 ounces) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 tablespoon sugar
0.5 teaspoon salt
100 milliliters (0.42 cups or 3.4 ounces) water
100 milliliters (0.42 cups or 3.4 ounces) vegetable oil
80 grams (2.8 ounces) black sesame seeds
egg yolk and cream for greasing (optional)

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
A large bowl works best to combine all the dry and wet ingredients thoroughly.
Whisk
Use a sturdy whisk to mix the dry ingredients quickly and evenly.
Rolling Pin
Ensure it's lightly floured to avoid sticking when rolling out the dough.
Baking Sheet
A non-stick baking sheet will give your cookies an even bake and make cleanup a breeze.
Parchment Paper
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy transfer of cookies.

Instructions

Step 1

1. Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C).

Step 2

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.

Step 3

Ensuring even distribution of the baking powder will help the cookies rise evenly.

Step 4

3. Bring the water to a boil and then mix it with the vegetable oil.

Step 5

Boiling the water helps in mixing the dry ingredients more smoothly.

Step 6

4. Add the water-oil mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. Knead the dough gently but not for too long to avoid making the cookies too dense.

Step 7

Over-kneading can lead to a tough texture.

Step 8

5. Roll out the dough to a 5mm thickness.

Step 9

Using a rolling pin with adjustable thickness bands can help achieve uniform thickness.

Step 10

6. If desired, brush the dough with a mixture of egg yolk and cream for a shiny, golden finish.

Step 11

7. Sprinkle the dough evenly with black sesame seeds.

Step 12

8. Cut the dough into squares using a sharp knife or a pastry cutter.

Step 13

Ensure the squares are even to bake uniformly.

Step 14

9. Place the squares on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 15

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 16

Keep an eye on the cookies in the last 5 minutes to prevent over-baking.

Step 17

11. Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack.

Step 18

12. Enjoy your delicious homemade cookies!

Servings

Serving & Presentation Ideas: Elevate Your Cookie Game!

Pair these delightful black sesame cookies with a cozy cup of green tea or a refreshing glass of iced almond milk 🥛. The subtle, nutty flavor of sesame seeds complements the mild bitterness of green tea, offering a balanced and satisfying treat.

For a unique twist, serve the cookies slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of textures—warm, crumbly cookies with cold, creamy ice cream—is irresistibly divine 🍨.

Planning a get-together? Arrange the cookies on an elegant platter and drizzle with a bit of melted chocolate for an extra touch of luxury. For added crunch and aesthetic, sprinkle some extra black sesame seeds on top 🥢. Your guests will be in awe of your baking prowess!

Variations

Variations: Gluten-Free and Vegan Options ❤️

Going gluten-free? Swap out the wheat flour with 300g of gluten-free all-purpose flour. Make sure to use a blend that includes xanthan gum or another binding agent to mimic the elasticity of gluten.

For a vegan version, simply replace the egg yolk used for greasing with a bit of non-dairy milk like almond milk or oat milk 🥛. This substitute works beautifully, giving your cookies the same golden-brown finish.

When it comes to oil, ensure you're using a neutral-tasting oil like sunflower or grapeseed. These options keep the cookies' original flavor intact while keeping them plant-based 🌿.

Faq

Why are my cookies hard and not soft?
Make sure not to over-knead the dough. Overworking it can make the cookies dense and hard.
How do I prevent the dough from sticking when rolling it out?
Lightly flour both your rolling pin and work surface to prevent sticking.
Can I use butter instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, you can use melted butter. It will give the cookies a richer flavor.
How can I ensure my cookies are evenly baked?
Arrange your cookies in the center of the oven and use a baking sheet to ensure even heat distribution.
Can I add other seeds or nuts?
Absolutely! You can mix in sunflower seeds or chopped nuts to add extra texture and flavor.
How do I store leftover cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or freeze them for up to three months.