Extremely tender "kurabie" cookies

Ingredients

Cookies

130 grams (1 cup) flour
100 grams (7 tablespoons) butter
1 egg white
40 grams (1/3 cup) powdered sugar
4 grams (1 teaspoon) vanilla sugar
2 tablespoons jam
0.5 teaspoon starch

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
A large bowl for combining your ingredients efficiently. Make sure it's big enough to prevent splattering!
Mixer or Whisk
Choose a stand mixer for ease or a handheld whisk to build those arm muscles.
Piping Bag with "Closed Star" Tip
This is essential for creating beautifully shaped cookies. If you don't have a piping bag, a zip-lock bag with the corner snipped off can be a quick fix!
Baking Sheet
A sturdy, non-stick baking sheet prevents cookies from sticking, making cleanup a breeze.
Parchment Paper
Line your baking sheet with this to avoid messy cleanups and ensure even baking.

Instructions

Step 1

1. In a bowl, mix the butter and powdered sugar until well combined using either a mixer or a regular whisk. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.

Step 2

2. Add vanilla sugar and an egg white, then continue to mix until smooth. Mix gently to incorporate air, making the cookies lighter.

Step 3

3. Gradually add the flour and knead the dough until it is soft and homogeneous. Don’t over-knead; it should just be smooth and come together.

Step 4

4. Transfer the dough to a piping bag fitted with a 'Closed star' tip and pipe the cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Ensure even spacing between cookies to allow for spreading.

Step 5

5. Make a small indentation in the center of each cookie and fill it with the jam mixed with starch. This will keep the jam from spreading too much during baking.

Step 6

6. Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 392°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them in the last few minutes to prevent over-browning.

Servings

Ready to serve your buttery creations? 💖 Here are some fantastic ideas:

**Classic Tea-Time Treat** 🍵: Pair your cookies with a comforting cup of black tea or green tea. The rich, buttery taste of the cookies complements the smooth, herbal notes of the tea perfectly.

**Dessert Platter Delight** 🍨: Add your cookies to a dessert platter with fresh berries, assorted chocolates, and mini tarts. It's a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds!

**Gift-Worthy Goodies** 🎁: Pack these cookies in a decorated tin or a beautiful box lined with parchment paper. They make thoughtful, homemade gifts that'll leave a lasting impression.

**Ice Cream Sandwiches** 🍦: Use your cookies to sandwich a scoop of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a cool, refreshing treat.

Variations

Looking for gluten-free or vegan options? 🌱 Here are some simple substitutions:

Gluten-Free Alternative 🥖: Substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture.

Vegan Version 🥥: Swap the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use a flax egg in place of the egg white (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water).

Now everyone can enjoy these delightful cookies without compromise!

Faq

What type of butter should I use?
Use unsalted butter to better control the salt levels in your cookies. High-quality butter will make your cookies even more delicious.
Can I use a different tip for the piping bag?
Absolutely! While the "Closed Star" tip gives a classic look, you can experiment with other tips to create different designs.
Can I refrigerate the dough before baking?
Yes, refrigerating the dough for about 30 minutes can enhance the flavors and make it easier to handle, especially in a warm kitchen.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure your dough is not too warm and your baking sheet is not too hot. Chilled dough from the refrigerator can help maintain shape during baking.
Can I add other fillings instead of jam?
Of course! Try using chocolate chips, Nutella, or even a dab of peanut butter as alternative fillings.
How do I achieve uniform cookies?
Consistent pressure while piping and equal spacing on your baking sheet will help you achieve uniform cookies. Using a cookie scoop can also aid in consistency.