How to Make Your Own Cookies from Around the World

Cookies are a beloved treat enjoyed by people of all ages around the world. They come in various shapes, sizes, textures, and flavors, reflecting the diverse cultures and traditions of their regions. Whether you're in search of a crunchy American cookie, a chewy British biscuit, or a rich Italian pastry, the world offers an incredible range of cookie recipes. In this article, we'll explore how to make cookies from various parts of the globe, sharing traditional recipes and techniques to help you bring international flavors into your kitchen.

American Cookies: The Chocolate Chip Cookie

The Birth of the Chocolate Chip Cookie

The chocolate chip cookie is one of the most iconic American treats. It was invented by Ruth Wakefield in 1938 at the Toll House Inn in Massachusetts. Ruth, who owned the inn with her husband, originally made a batch of butter cookies and added chunks of Nestlé chocolate. The cookies became so popular that Nestlé later began selling pre-chopped chocolate specifically for cookie baking, and the cookie has since become a staple in American kitchens.

Ingredients:

• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• ¾ cup white sugar
• ¾ cup packed brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips

Method:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together the butter, white sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the vanilla extract and eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
6. Fold in the chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

British Biscuits: Digestive Biscuits

The History of Digestive Biscuits

Originating in the United Kingdom, digestive biscuits were first developed in the 19th century as a way to aid digestion, hence the name "digestive." These biscuits are made with whole wheat flour and are slightly sweet, offering a perfect balance of flavor and texture. In the UK, digestive biscuits are commonly served with tea, but they also serve as a base for desserts like cheesecake crusts.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• ¼ cup white sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 2 tbsp milk

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Rub the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
4. Add the milk and mix until the dough just comes together.
5. Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness.
6. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out biscuits and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the biscuits are lightly golden.
8. Let cool on a wire rack before serving.

Italian Cookies: Biscotti

The Tradition of Biscotti

Biscotti, also known as cantucci, are traditional Italian cookies that originate from the Tuscany region. These twice-baked treats are typically made with almonds, though other nuts or dried fruits can be added. Biscotti are perfect for dipping into coffee or dessert wines like Vin Santo, making them a popular choice in Italian cafes.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole almonds, toasted

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk the sugar and eggs together until pale and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until well combined.
5. Gently fold in the toasted almonds.
6. Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log, about 12 inches long and 2 inches wide.
7. Place the logs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown.
8. Let the logs cool for 10 minutes before slicing them diagonally into ½-inch thick pieces.
9. Place the slices back on the baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until crisp and golden.
10. Cool completely on a wire rack before serving.

French Cookies: Madeleines

The Elegance of Madeleines

Madeleines are small, shell-shaped French sponge cakes that are often considered a type of cookie. They are light, airy, and buttery, with a delicate crumb. According to legend, madeleines were first created by a French servant named Madeleine, and they were later popularized by the writer Marcel Proust in his novel "In Search of Lost Time."

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Zest of 1 lemon

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease and flour a madeleine pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk the sugar and eggs together until light and fluffy.
4. Stir in the melted butter, vanilla extract, and lemon zest.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Spoon the batter into the prepared madeleine pan, filling each mold about three-quarters full.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden and the tops spring back when touched.
8. Let the madeleines cool for a few minutes in the pan before transferring them to a wire rack.

Mexican Cookies: Polvorones (Mexican Wedding Cookies)

The Origins of Polvorones

Polvorones, also known as Mexican wedding cookies or snowball cookies, are a classic Mexican treat often served at weddings and celebrations. These buttery cookies are made with powdered sugar and ground nuts, which gives them a melt-in-your-mouth texture. The name "polvorones" comes from the Spanish word "polvo," meaning powder, which refers to the powdered sugar coating.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
• ½ cup powdered sugar, plus more for dusting
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup finely ground pecans or walnuts
• ¼ tsp salt

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour, ground nuts, and salt, stirring until combined.
5. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are just golden on the bottom.
7. Allow the cookies to cool slightly before rolling them in powdered sugar to coat them completely.
8. Cool completely on a wire rack.

German Cookies: Lebkuchen

The Tradition of Lebkuchen

Lebkuchen are traditional German spiced cookies that are often associated with the Christmas season. These cookies are made with honey, spices, and nuts, and they have a soft, cake-like texture. Lebkuchen are commonly decorated with icing or sugar and are enjoyed with a cup of hot mulled wine.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• ½ tsp ground cloves
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup honey
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup finely chopped almonds or hazelnuts
• Icing for decoration (optional)

Method:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and spices.
3. In a saucepan, warm the honey and brown sugar over low heat until the sugar dissolves.
4. Beat in the egg and gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing to form a dough.
5. Fold in the chopped nuts.
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about ¼-inch thickness and cut into desired shapes using cookie cutters.
7. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are golden.
8. Let cool and decorate with icing if desired.

Conclusion

Baking cookies from around the world is a wonderful way to explore different cultures and traditions while also enjoying delicious treats. Whether you're making a batch of classic chocolate chip cookies from the United States, delicate madeleines from France, or spicy lebkuchen from Germany, each recipe offers a unique taste of its country of origin. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and embark on a global baking adventure!

View Product