Soft Plum and Walnut Cookies

Ingredients

Cookies

120 grams (4.2 ounces) butter
50 grams (1.8 ounces) vegetable oil
70 grams (2.5 ounces) sugar
10 grams (0.35 ounces) vanilla sugar
35 grams (1.2 ounces) cornstarch
240 grams (8.5 ounces) flour
Pinch of salt
200 grams (7.1 ounces) firm plums
50 grams (1.8 ounces) walnuts

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
A large mixing bowl is ideal to combine all your ingredients evenly. Opt for a non-slip base to make mixing easier.
Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
Using a mixer ensures that the butter and sugars cream together perfectly, giving your cookies the best texture.
Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurement is crucial for baking, so make sure to level off your ingredients for precise amounts.
Chopping Board and Knife
You'll need these to cut the plums and walnuts. Use a sharp knife for smooth and even cuts.
Refrigerator
Chilling the dough ensures that the cookies hold their shape while baking.
Oven
Preheat it to 180°C (356F) to ensure even baking. A reliable oven thermometer can help you maintain the correct temperature.
Parchment Paper
This makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet.
Wire Rack
Cooling the cookies on a wire rack helps retain their crispy edges and prevents them from becoming soggy.

Instructions

Step 1

In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened butter with the sugar and vanilla sugar until creamy and smooth. Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier mixing.

Step 2

Add the vegetable oil, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt to the mixture. Mix well until fully combined.

Step 3

Gradually add the flour to the mix, incorporating it slowly to avoid lumps.

Step 4

Cut the plums into small cubes and chop the walnuts. Ensure the pieces are small to distribute evenly in the dough.

Step 5

Gently fold the plums and walnuts into the dough until evenly distributed.

Step 6

Cover the dough and refrigerate it for 30 minutes. Chilling the dough helps in handling and prevents the cookies from spreading too much.

Step 7

Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).

Step 8

With moist hands, form the dough into balls slightly larger than a walnut-sized portion.

Step 9

Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Gently flatten each ball into a cookie shape.

Step 10

Bake in the preheated oven for 15-17 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Step 11

Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.

Step 12

If desired, sprinkle the cookies with powdered sugar or drizzle them with melted chocolate as a finishing touch. Adding these toppings can elevate the presentation and taste.

Servings

These cookies are a hit in any setting! For a more elegant presentation, you could dust them with powdered sugar or drizzle them with melted chocolate. 🍫

Planning a cozy afternoon with friends? Pair these cookies with a warm cup of tea or coffee. ☕ They make for the perfect companion to your favorite hot beverage, adding a touch of sweetness to your relaxation time.

Hosting a family brunch? Serve these cookies on a decorative platter with a side of fresh fruit. 🍇🥝 The combination of flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds.

If you’re up for a treat-yourself moment, enjoy these cookies with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. 🍨 The cold ice cream paired with the warm, nutty cookies is an experience you don’t want to miss!

Variations

Gluten-Free Version 🌾💔: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best texture. Also, double-check that your cornstarch is gluten-free.

Vegan Version 🌱💪: Replace the butter with a plant-based margarine and use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil. Opt for a vegan-friendly sugar brand, and voila! You have delicious vegan cookies.

Faq

Why is my cookie dough too sticky?
This can happen due to warm butter or too much liquid. Chill the dough longer or add a bit more flour to reach the desired consistency.
How do I prevent my cookies from spreading too much?
Chilling the dough is key. Make sure to refrigerate it for the full 30 minutes or even longer if needed.
Can I use different nuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute walnuts with almonds, pecans, or any nut of your choice. It will slightly change the flavor but will still be delicious.
How can I make my cookies crispier?
Bake them a bit longer and ensure they cool completely on a wire rack to retain that crisp edge. You could also use less moisture-rich ingredients like dried plums instead of fresh ones.
Can I freeze the dough?
Yes, you can! Freeze the dough balls on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a ziplock bag. They'll last up to 3 months in the freezer.
How can I enhance the flavor?
Adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the taste. Also, using high-quality vanilla extract makes a big difference.