Easter nest cookies

Ingredients

Cookies

470 grams (4 cups) flour

2 large eggs

200 grams (1 cup) butter, softened

235 grams (1 cup) granulated sugar

0.5 teaspoons (0.5 teaspoons) baking soda

40 grams (0.33 cups) cocoa powder

Instructions

Step 1

Step 1: Whisk the eggs with sugar until pale and frothy, then add the softened butter. Make sure the butter is at room temperature to mix in well.

Step 2

Step 2: Sift the flour, baking soda, and cocoa powder together. Sifting the dry ingredients helps to remove lumps and adds air for a lighter dough.

Step 3

Step 3: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the egg mixture, and knead the dough with your hands until well combined. Be careful not to over-knead to avoid a tough dough.

Step 4

Step 4: Put the dough in the freezer for 1 hour to harden. Chilling the dough makes it easier to shape.

Step 5

Step 5: Once the dough has hardened, put it through a meat grinder to form nests. If you don't have a meat grinder, you can shape the nests by hand or use a cookie press.

Step 6

Step 6: Place the nests on parchment paper-lined baking sheets and bake in an oven preheated to 356°F (180°C) for 15 minutes. Keep an eye on the cookies to avoid over-baking.

Step 7

Step 7: Decorate with chocolate eggs or glazed nuts as desired. Let the cookies cool completely before decorating for best results.

Servings

🌟 Ready to serve your Nest Cookies with a twist? Here are some fun and delicious serving ideas:

Milk & Cookies: Nothing says comfort like a warm cookie paired with a glass of cold milk. It's a match made in heaven! 🥛

Decorative Delights: Elevate your presentation by placing the cookies on a fancy plate and topping each one with mini chocolate eggs or glazed nuts. This makes them look as good as they taste! 🍫

Picnic Perfect: Pack these beauties into a basket for an outdoor picnic. They travel well and are sure to be a hit in any casual setting. 🍃

Dessert Extravaganza: Serve your Nest Cookies alongside a platter of fresh fruits, some whipped cream, and maybe even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast in flavors is simply delightful! 🍓🍦

Equipment

Whisk

Ideal for combining eggs and sugar until they are fluffy and smooth.

Mixing Bowl

Make sure it's large enough to fit all your ingredients comfortably.

Sifter

This helps to aerate the flour and cocoa powder, ensuring a lighter dough.

Meat Grinder

Perfect for shaping unique nest cookies. Ensure it's clean before use.

Parchment Paper

Keeps your cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, making clean-up a breeze.

Baking Sheet

A quality baking sheet ensures even heat distribution for perfectly baked cookies.

Variations

🥄 Want to make this recipe gluten-free? Substitute the 470g flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it contains a binder like xanthan gum for the right texture.

🌱 To create a vegan version, replace the 2 eggs with flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water) and swap the 200g butter for a plant-based butter alternative.

Faq

Q: Can I skip the freezing step?
A: Freezing the dough helps it firm up, making it easier to shape. Skipping this step might make the dough too soft to work with.
Q: Do I need to sift the flour?
A: Yes, sifting the flour helps prevent lumps and ensures a smoother dough.
Q: Can I add other flavorings?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add vanilla extract or even a hint of cinnamon for an extra flavor kick.
Q: How do I know when the cookies are done?
A: The cookies should be set and slightly golden around the edges. 15 minutes at 356F (180C) should do the trick.
Q: What's the best way to store these cookies?
A: Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They taste even better the next day!
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but be sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.