Washboard Cookies are a nostalgic, old-fashioned treat that’s crispy, slightly sweet, and perfect for those who enjoy cookies with a little crunch. These cookies are often made with basic pantry ingredients and are known for their unique, textured appearance that resembles a washboard, hence the name.
Here’s a simple and delicious recipe to make Washboard Cookies:
Washboard Cookies Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk if you don’t have buttermilk)
- 1/2 cup cornstarch (for the signature texture)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for rolling)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cornstarch. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Add Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, alternating with the buttermilk (or milk). Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
5. Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop out small portions of dough using a spoon or cookie scoop, and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter.
- Roll each dough ball in the remaining granulated sugar.
- Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
6. Create the Washboard Texture:
- Using a fork or the tines of a spoon, gently press down on each dough ball to create a textured pattern on the top of each cookie. You can also lightly flatten them using your fingers, if you prefer.
7. Bake the Cookies:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still be soft, but the cookies will firm up as they cool.
8. Cool:
- Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Serve:
- Once cooled, enjoy these delicious Washboard Cookies with a cup of tea or coffee!
Tips:
- Texture: The cornstarch in these cookies is key to achieving their characteristic texture, so don’t skip it.
- Flavored Washboard Cookies: You can add cinnamon, nutmeg, or lemon zest to the dough to give these cookies a little extra flavor.
- Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
These Washboard Cookies are a fun, classic treat that is easy to make and loved by many for their crispy texture and simple sweetness. Enjoy this old-fashioned favorite!