Benne Wafers
Benne Wafers are crispy, sesame seed cookies with a rich, nutty flavor and a hint of sweetness. Their delicate texture and toasted sesame aroma make them a delightful treat for any occasion, perfect for those who enjoy simple, flavorful cookies with a touch of Southern tradition.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the sesame seeds on an ungreased baking sheet and toast for 10 to 12 minutes until light brown.
- Watch closely to prevent burning.
- In a large bowl, mix the brown sugar, melted butter or margarine, egg, vanilla extract, flour, salt, baking powder, and toasted sesame seeds until well combined.
- Drop the dough by 1/2 teaspoonfuls, 1 1/2 inches apart, onto a lightly greased baking sheet.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 4 to 6 minutes until light brown.
- Let the cookies cool for about 2 minutes before removing from the baking sheet to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider using toasted sesame oil in place of some of the butter. If you're looking for a healthier option, try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Ensure to monitor the sesame seeds closely while toasting to prevent burning, as they can go from toasted to burnt very quickly. Additionally, you can experiment by adding a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Benne Wafers are delightful on their own but also pair beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee. You can serve them alongside a fresh fruit platter for a light dessert or even crumble them over yogurt for added texture. For a creative twist, consider incorporating them into dessert recipes like Clare'S Strawberry Delight for a crunchy topping.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Benne Wafers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. For longer storage, they can be frozen in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferred to a freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until warm and crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Benne Wafers contains roughly 134 calories, with 2g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 2g 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 different types of seeds instead of sesame seeds?
Yes, you can substitute sesame seeds with other seeds like sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for a different flavor profile. However, keep in mind that this will change the texture and taste of the Benne Wafers. Just ensure to toast them in the same way as the sesame seeds for optimal flavor.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they turn light brown around the edges and have a slightly glossy appearance. Since Benne Wafers are thin, they bake quickly, so keep a close eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking. They will continue to crisp up as they cool on the wire rack.
Can I make these cookies vegan?
Yes, you can make vegan Benne Wafers by replacing the butter with a plant-based margarine and using a flax egg or chia egg instead of the egg. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. This will help bind the ingredients together.
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).