Introduction: A Unique Nigerian Twist on Cookies
When it comes to Nigerian cuisine, garri is a staple ingredient cherished for its versatility. While many enjoy it as eba or soaked garri, have you ever tried making cookies with it? Yes, you read that right—Nigerian Garri Cookies! This delightful treat combines the crunchiness of garri with the sweetness of a classic cookie, offering a fusion of textures and flavors that will keep you coming back for more. Perfect for tea time, a midday snack, or even a quick breakfast, this simple and easy Garri Cookie recipe is a must-try.
Let’s dive into how you can make crispy, golden-brown Nigerian Garri Cookies right from your kitchen.
Ingredients for Nigerian Garri Cookies
To prepare about 12-15 cookies, you will need the following ingredients:
Dry Ingredients:
- 1 cup of fine white or yellow garri (sifted for a smoother texture)
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- ½ teaspoon of salt
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup of butter (softened)
- ½ cup of sugar (brown or white)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup of milk (or as needed for consistency)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ teaspoon of cinnamon powder (for extra warmth)
- ¼ cup of chopped peanuts or cashews (for crunch)
- ¼ cup of chocolate chips (for a sweet twist)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Before starting, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or grease lightly with butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the garri, flour, baking powder, and salt. If you prefer a smoother texture, sift the flour before mixing.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate large bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This helps in achieving a soft yet crunchy texture in the cookies.
Step 4: Add the Egg and Vanilla
Crack the egg into the butter mixture and add the vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined. If using cinnamon, add it at this stage for extra flavor.
Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. If the dough appears too dry, slowly add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a firm but moldable dough.
Step 6: Add Optional Ingredients
If you’re using nuts, chocolate chips, or raisins, fold them into the dough at this point for an added burst of flavor and crunch.
Step 7: Shape and Bake
Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough, roll them into balls, and place them on the baking tray. Flatten each slightly with a fork or your palm to give it a cookie shape.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown. Be careful not to overbake, as the cookies will continue to harden slightly as they cool.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the tray for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for the Perfect Garri Cookies
- Use fine garri: The finer the garri, the better the texture of your cookies.
- Adjust sugar levels: If you prefer less sweetness, reduce the sugar slightly without compromising texture.
- For a gluten-free version, replace all-purpose flour with almond or oat flour.
- Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness for up to a week.
Why You’ll Love These Garri Cookies
- Crunchy and flavorful: The garri adds an incredible texture that’s both crispy and light.
- Quick and easy: No fancy ingredients or equipment needed—just simple pantry staples.
- A delightful Nigerian twist: It’s a new way to enjoy garri beyond the traditional soak or eba.
- Perfect for all occasions: Great for snacking, gifting, or pairing with tea and coffee.
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