Benne Wafers Recipe

Recipe

Benne Wafers Recipe

Sesame Delights: Crispy Benne Wafers

Indulge in the rich flavors of American cuisine with this delightful recipe for Benne Wafers. These crispy, thin cookies are a beloved treat originating from the American South, specifically from the Gullah Geechee culture.

Jan Dec

15 minutes

10-12 minutes

25-27 minutes

This recipe makes approximately 36 Benne Wafers

Easy

Vegetarian, Nut-free (if using sesame seeds without cross-contamination), Soy-free, Egg-free, Kosher

Sesame seeds, Dairy (butter)

Vegan, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Paleo, Low-carb

Ingredients

Nutrition

  • Calories: 70 kcal / 293 KJ
  • Fat: 5g (3g saturated)
  • Carbohydrates: 6g (4g sugars)
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Salt: 0.05g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. 2.
    In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. 3.
    Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
  4. 4.
    Gradually add the flour, toasted sesame seeds, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until the dough comes together.
  5. 5.
    Take small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between them.
  6. 6.
    Flatten each ball with the bottom of a glass or the palm of your hand to create thin wafers.
  7. 7.
    Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the wafers turn golden brown.
  8. 8.
    Remove from the oven and let the wafers cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Sesame seeds — Toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until they turn golden brown and become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as it can give a bitter taste to the wafers.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra crunch, you can add a handful of finely chopped toasted almonds or pecans to the dough.
  • Make sure to let the wafers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their crispiness.
  • Experiment with different shapes and sizes for a fun twist on presentation.
  • If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top of the wafers before serving.
  • These wafers make a great accompaniment to a cup of tea or coffee.

Serving advice

Serve the Benne Wafers on a platter or in a decorative tin for a charming presentation. They are perfect for afternoon tea, holiday gatherings, or as a delightful snack any time of the day.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Benne Wafers in a circular pattern on a serving plate, with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also place them in a decorative tin or jar, tied with a ribbon, for a lovely homemade gift.