Benne Cookies
Benne cookies are delightful, crunchy treats that showcase the nutty flavor of toasted sesame seeds. Perfect for snacking or as a sweet addition to a tea party, these cookies are simple to make and offer a unique twist on traditional cookie recipes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients.
- Drop by 1/2 teaspoon onto greased cookie sheet.
- Press down with a wet fork.
- Bake at 325° for 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter and adjusting the sugar to your taste. If you don’t have benne seeds, toasted sesame seeds can be a suitable substitute. Ensure your cookie sheet is well-greased to prevent sticking, and for more texture, try adding chocolate chips or nuts to the mix. These cookies can also be made gluten-free by substituting with a gluten-free all-purpose flour.
Serving Suggestions
Benne cookies make a delightful treat on their own or can be served alongside a cup of tea or coffee. For a fun dessert platter, pair them with Chocolate Chess Pie or Confetti Cookies. They also work well as a sweet addition to a holiday cookie exchange or as a gift in a decorative tin.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover benne cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. If you want to keep them fresh longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them in the oven for a few minutes before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Benne Cookies contains roughly 67 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular flour instead of self-rising flour?
Yes, you can use regular all-purpose flour instead of self-rising flour. Just add 1 1/4 teaspoons of baking powder and a pinch of salt for every cup of flour to mimic the leavening effect of self-rising flour.
What can I do if my cookies spread too much while baking?
If your cookies spread excessively during baking, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking. This helps solidify the butter, resulting in thicker cookies. Additionally, ensure your baking sheet is not too hot when you place the dough on it.
Are benne cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Benne seeds are actually sesame seeds, which can be a concern for those with sesame allergies. If you're preparing these cookies for someone with nut allergies, consider using sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the risk of allergic reactions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).