Wafer Cookies

Prep: 10 min Cook: 8 min Cuisine: American

Crispy wafer cookies with a hint of vanilla and optional pecans, perfect for snacking or serving with tea, offering a delightful crunch and buttery flavor.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup shortening
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 1/8 cups sifted plain flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

  1. Mix shortening, sugar, egg, and vanilla until well blended.
  2. Drop by teaspoonfuls onto greased cookie sheets.
  3. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top and press them in.
  4. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes until golden.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using a blend of half shortening and half butter. If you're out of shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of coconut oil. Ensure your baking soda is fresh for optimal rising. For a flavor twist, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans.

Serving Suggestions

These wafer cookies make a delightful treat on their own or can be paired with a cup of tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack. They also work well as a topping for ice cream or crumbled over yogurt. For a fun twist, try serving them alongside American recipes like Luscious Potato Soup for a unique flavor combination.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover wafer cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, place them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for a few minutes until warm and crispy.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Wafer Cookies contains roughly 398 calories, with 7g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of iron (15% of the Daily Value), protein (14% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 841mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).

398 kcal 20% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.2g 14% DV
Total Fat 6.9g 9% DV
Carbs 71.8g 26% DV
Fiber 3.1g 11% DV
Sugar 1.6g 3% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 841.3mg 37% DV
Potassium 436.2mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 89.6mg 30% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 51.3mcg 6% DV
Vitamin C 11.6mg 13% DV
Calcium 132.3mg 10% DV
Iron 2.6mg 15% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

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 whole wheat flour instead of plain flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for plain flour, but it may result in a denser cookie. If using whole wheat, consider adding a tablespoon more sugar to balance the flavor.

How can I make these cookies more flavorful?

For added flavor, try incorporating citrus zest, such as lemon or orange, into the batter. Additionally, using flavored extracts like almond or hazelnut can enhance the taste. A pinch of sea salt on top before baking can also elevate the flavor profile.

What can I use if I don't have pecans?

If you don't have pecans, you can use other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or even seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for a crunch. Alternatively, you can leave them out entirely for a simple, nut-free cookie.

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).

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