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Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
4. Add the Wet Ingredients:
Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until fully incorporated. Then, add the kefir and mix until smooth. The kefir will add a slight tang and keep the dough moist and easy to handle.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in denser cookies.
6. Scoop the Dough:
Using a cookie scoop or a tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart, as they will spread slightly while baking.
7. Bake the Cookies:
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers will remain soft, but they will firm up as they cool. Keep an eye on them, as every oven is different!
8. Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar:
Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. If desired, dust the cookies with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and a pretty finish.
Tips for Perfect Soft Kefir Cookies:
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter and egg are at room temperature before starting. This will help them incorporate more easily and create a smooth dough.
- Don’t Overbake: For soft, chewy cookies, be careful not to overbake them. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so it’s okay if they seem slightly underdone when you take them out of the oven.
- Adjust the Flavor: You can experiment with the flavor of the cookies by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or a dash of nutmeg for a subtle spice. A little almond extract would also complement the kefir’s tangy flavor beautifully.
- Chill the Dough (Optional): If you have time, chill the dough for 30 minutes to an hour before baking. This helps the cookies maintain their shape better during baking, and you’ll get slightly thicker, chewier cookies.
- Make Them Dairy-Free: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, try using a plant-based kefir (such as coconut or almond kefir) and substitute the butter with a non-dairy option like coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute.
Why Soft Kefir Cookies Are a Great Choice:
These soft kefir cookies are a wonderful choice for anyone looking to enjoy a lighter, more unique twist on classic cookies. The kefir adds a level of moisture and tang that sets them apart from traditional cookies, while still delivering that sweet, comforting cookie flavor. The texture is soft and delicate, perfect for dunking in a cup of tea or enjoying as an after-dinner treat.
Plus, kefir’s probiotic content gives these cookies a little extra benefit for your gut health, making them a treat you can feel good about indulging in. They are also versatile enough to be customized with your favorite spices, citrus zest, or even dried fruit and nuts for added flavor and texture.
Whether you’re a kefir fan or simply looking to try something new, these soft kefir cookies are sure to become a beloved addition to your baking rotation. So grab your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy the irresistible softness and subtle tang of these delicious cookies!
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