Dive into the rich flavours of Italian baking with the scrumptious Italian Cornmeal Cookies. With a unique texture and delightful taste, these cookies offer an enjoyable twist to your regular baking adventures.
Most ingredients for this recipe are commonly found in households. However, you might need to look for yellow cornmeal if it's not already in your pantry. It's a type of flour ground from dried maize and a staple in Italian cuisine.
Ingredients for Italian Cornmeal Cookies
Unsalted butter: Adds moisture and richness to the cookies.
Granulated sugar: Provides sweetness to balance the flavor of cornmeal.
Large eggs: Used as a binding agent and adds structure to the cookies.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
All-purpose flour: Serves as the base and gives structure to the cookies.
Yellow cornmeal: Gives the cookies a distinct texture and flavor.
Baking powder: Acts as a leavening agent to make the cookies rise.
Salt: Enhances the other flavors in the cookies.
One reader, Ernesta Pack says:
These Italian cornmeal cookies are a delightful treat! The combination of cornmeal and butter creates a unique texture, and the subtle sweetness is just perfect. They are easy to make and taste amazing with a cup of coffee. I highly recommend trying this recipe!
Techniques Required for Italian Cornmeal Cookies Recipe
How to prepare the dough: In a stand mixer, beat together the butter and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition, and then beat in the vanilla extract.
How to refrigerate the dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate until cool enough to handle, about one hour.
How to bake the cookies: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Pinch off dough by the tablespoon, roll into balls, place on prepared baking sheets, and flatten into discs with your hand. Bake for 13-16 minutes, until cookies are pale on top and lightly golden on the bottom.
How to freeze the cookie dough: Roll the dough into balls, let set on a baking sheet in the freezer, then place in a sealable bag and press out as much air as possible. Bake as needed directly from the freezer (allow 1 to 2 minutes longer in the oven).
How to freeze after baking: Let the cookies cool completely and store in an airtight container separating layers with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Before serving, remove the cookies from the container and let them come to room temperature.
How To Make Italian Cornmeal Cookies
These sweet, crispy on the outside, soft on the inside cornmeal cookies are common in Northern Italy and have a flavor similar to toasted cornbread.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 11tbspunsalted butter
- ½cupgranulated sugar,plus 1½ tbsp
- 2large eggs,at room temperature
- ½tspvanilla extract
- 1½cupsall purpose flour,spooned into measuring cup and leveled off with knife
- 1cupyellow cornmeal
- 2tspbaking powder
- ¾tspsalt
Instructions
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In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat together the butter and sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla extract.
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In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, baking powder and salt.
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Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and beat on low speed until just combined.
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Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour, until cool enough to handle.
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Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Pinch off dough by the tablespoon and roll into balls. Place balls on prepared baking sheets and flatten into discs.
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Bake for 13 to 16 minutes, until cookies are pale on top and lightly golden on the bottom. Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool.
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Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 73.10kcal
- Fat: 3.52g
- Saturated Fat: 2.10g
- Trans Fat: 0.13g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 0.93g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.22g
- Carbohydrates: 9.28g
- Fiber: 0.28g
- Sugar: 2.59g
- Protein: 1.11g
- Cholesterol: 17.70mg
- Sodium: 41.39mg
- Calcium: 20.14mg
- Potassium: 15.12mg
- Iron: 0.46mg
- Vitamin A: 31.14µg
Mastering the Art of Italian Cornmeal Cookies: A Technique Tip
When making these Italian cornmeal cookies, it's important to not overwork the dough once the dry ingredients are added to the butter mixture. Overmixing can lead to a tougher texture in the final product. Instead, mix just until the ingredients are combined for a tender, crumbly cookie. Also, chilling the dough before baking helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much in the oven, resulting in a more uniform and appealing shape.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Italian Cornmeal Cookies
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to save time and ensure you have everything you need.
Chill the dough: Place the cookie dough in the freezer for 30 minutes instead of the refrigerator for an hour to speed up the chilling process.
Use a cookie scoop: Use a cookie scoop to portion the dough, ensuring uniform cookies and saving time on shaping each one individually.
Bake in batches: While one batch is baking, prepare the next batch of cookies to maximize oven usage and save time.
Double the recipe: Consider doubling the recipe and freezing half the dough for future use, saving time on preparation later.
Preheat the oven: Make sure the oven is fully preheated before baking to ensure even cooking and save time in the long run.
Plan ahead: Read the entire recipe before starting to anticipate any waiting periods or steps that can be done simultaneously to save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Italian Cornmeal Cookies Recipe
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can provide a similar richness and flavor to the cookies, and it is a suitable vegan alternative to butter.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a similar sweetness to granulated sugar and adds a hint of caramel flavor, which can complement the cornmeal cookies.
large eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: To make flax eggs, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This vegan alternative can help bind the ingredients together in the cookie dough.
all purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free all purpose flour: For a gluten-free option, using a blend of gluten-free flours can work well in this recipe without compromising the texture of the cookies.
yellow cornmeal - Substitute with polenta: Polenta is a coarser grind of cornmeal and can be used as a substitute, providing a similar texture and flavor to the cookies.
baking powder - Substitute with baking soda: If you're out of baking powder, you can use baking soda as a substitute. Keep in mind that you'll need an acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to activate the baking soda.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for regular salt, adding a slightly different flavor profile to the cookies.
Presenting Italian Cornmeal Cookies for Maximum Appeal
Elevate the plating: When presenting the Italian cornmeal cookies, arrange them on a pristine white plate, allowing their golden color to stand out against the backdrop. The contrast will enhance the visual appeal of the cookies.
Incorporate garnishes: Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar over the cookies to add a touch of elegance and a hint of sweetness. This will create a visually appealing contrast against the golden hue of the cookies.
Pair with a complementary beverage: Serve the cookies with a delicate lemon-infused tea to provide a refreshing and citrusy accompaniment that enhances the overall dining experience.
Utilize symmetry and balance: Arrange the cookies in a circular pattern, ensuring that each cookie is placed with precision and care. This attention to detail will showcase the cookies as a harmonious and visually appealing dessert.
Add a touch of sophistication: Place a single fresh mint leaf delicately beside the cookies to introduce a pop of color and a subtle hint of herbal fragrance, elevating the overall presentation.
Consider the use of fine china: Present the cookies on a delicate, handcrafted porcelain plate to add a touch of luxury and refinement to the overall dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making Italian Cornmeal Cookies
Stand mixer: A stand mixer is a versatile tool that can be used for creaming butter and sugar, beating eggs, and mixing dough. It's a convenient and efficient way to combine ingredients and create a smooth, creamy texture.
Whisk: A whisk is essential for blending dry ingredients, such as flour and cornmeal, and ensuring they are evenly distributed. It's also useful for incorporating air into the mixture, resulting in light and airy cookies.
Medium bowl: A medium bowl is perfect for whisking together the dry ingredients, providing ample space for thorough mixing without creating a mess.
Baking sheets: Baking sheets are necessary for shaping and baking the cookies. They provide a flat, even surface for the cookies to bake and prevent them from sticking to the pan.
Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used to line the baking sheets, preventing the cookies from sticking and making cleanup easier.
Wire rack: A wire rack is essential for cooling the cookies after baking. It allows air to circulate around the cookies, preventing them from becoming soggy on the bottom.
Storing and Freezing Italian Cornmeal Cookies for Later
- Let the cookies cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. To keep them extra fresh, place a slice of bread in the container with the cookies. The bread will absorb any excess moisture and keep the cookies crisp.
- If you're planning to freeze the cookie dough, roll it into balls and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer until firm. Then, transfer the frozen dough balls to a freezer-safe bag or container, pressing out as much air as possible. The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, place the frozen dough balls on a lined baking sheet and bake directly from the freezer, allowing an extra 1-2 minutes in the oven.
- To freeze the baked cookies, let them cool completely and store them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper or aluminum foil. When ready to serve, remove the cookies from the container and let them come to room temperature before enjoying.
- If you prefer a softer cookie, store them in an airtight container with a slice of apple instead of bread. The moisture from the apple will help keep the cookies soft and chewy.
- For long-term storage, consider vacuum sealing the cookies in individual portions. This will help prevent freezer burn and maintain their freshness for up to 6 months.
How To Reheat Leftover Italian Cornmeal Cookies
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the Italian cornmeal cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crisp around the edges. This method will help restore the cookies' original texture and flavor.
For a quicker option, you can use a microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and heat them on high power for 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the cookies to become soggy. If needed, heat them for an additional 5-10 seconds until they reach your desired temperature.
If you prefer a softer texture, wrap the cookies in a damp paper towel before microwaving them. This will help maintain their moisture and prevent them from drying out during the reheating process.
For a crispy texture, you can also reheat the cookies in a toaster oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the cookies on the wire rack. Heat for 3-5 minutes, or until they are warmed through and slightly crispy.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your Italian cornmeal cookies. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the cookies in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until they are heated through and slightly crisp.
Surprising Facts About Italian Cornmeal Cookies
The Italian cornmeal cookies recipe is a traditional treat that originated in Italy. These cookies are known for their unique texture and flavor, thanks to the addition of cornmeal. They are often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea, and are a popular choice for dessert or a sweet snack. Cornmeal, a staple ingredient in Italian cuisine, adds a delightful crunch and golden color to these cookies. Whether served at a gathering or enjoyed at home, these cookies are a delightful way to experience a taste of Italy.
Is Making Italian Cornmeal Cookies at Home Cost-Effective?
This Italian Cornmeal Cookies recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients are simple and commonly found in most kitchens, making it an affordable treat. The use of cornmeal adds a unique and economical twist to the traditional cookie recipe. With a delightful texture and flavor, these cookies are a budget-friendly option for a sweet treat. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $8-$10, making it a wallet-friendly dessert option. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Are Italian Cornmeal Cookies Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Italian cornmeal cookies recipe, while delicious, is not particularly healthy due to several factors:
- High in butter and sugar, which are calorie-dense and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in excess
- Refined all-purpose flour lacks fiber and essential nutrients found in whole grain flours
- Relatively low in nutritional value, as the recipe doesn't include any fruits, vegetables, or other nutrient-dense ingredients
However, the recipe does incorporate some healthier elements, such as:
- Cornmeal, which is a gluten-free whole grain that provides some fiber and nutrients
- The use of unsalted butter, which helps control sodium intake
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of butter and sugar used, or replace some of the butter with a healthier alternative like Greek yogurt or mashed avocado
- Substitute at least half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour or a gluten-free flour blend to increase fiber and nutrient content
- Add in some finely grated zucchini or carrots to boost the vegetable content and moisture without compromising taste and texture
- Experiment with natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or date paste to replace some of the refined sugar
- Incorporate chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruit to enhance the nutritional profile and provide additional flavor and texture
Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying these cookies as an occasional treat can be part of a balanced diet.
Editor's Thoughts on the Delightful Italian Cornmeal Cookies
The Italian cornmeal cookies recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The use of cornmeal adds a pleasant crunch, while the butter and sugar create a rich, buttery sweetness. The cookies are easy to prepare and versatile, making them a perfect treat for any occasion. The freezer-friendly instructions provide added convenience for busy bakers. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional cookies and is sure to impress with its rustic charm and delicious taste.
Enhance Your Italian Cornmeal Cookies Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Italian Cornmeal Cookies
Appetizers and Main Courses to Serve with Italian Cornmeal Cookies
Why trust this Italian Cornmeal Cookies Recipe:
This Italian cornmeal cookies recipe is a delightful treat that will surely impress your taste buds. The combination of cornmeal and butter creates a unique texture, while the addition of vanilla extract adds a delightful aroma. The careful balance of flour and baking powder ensures the perfect rise and crumb. Trust in the expertise of this recipe, as it has been meticulously crafted to deliver a delightful and authentic Italian cookie experience. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
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