Sierra Leonean Spiced Cookies

Ingredients

In this Sierra Leonean adaptation of the Moravian Spice Cookies, we incorporate traditional West African flavors and ingredients. The original recipe is enhanced with the addition of ground peanuts, which adds a nutty element to the cookies. The use of palm sugar instead of regular granulated sugar infuses a subtle caramel-like sweetness. These modifications give the cookies a distinct Sierra Leonean twist, making them a delightful fusion of American and West African culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Moravian Spice Cookies, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (100g) palm sugar 1/2 cup (100g) palm sugar
• 1/4 cup (30g) ground peanuts 1/4 cup (30g) ground peanuts
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 13g, 6g
• Protein: 2g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2.
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and palm sugar until light and fluffy.
4. 4.
   Add the ground peanuts, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix well until combined.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6. 6.
   Roll the dough into small balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. 7.
   Flatten each ball slightly with the back of a fork, creating a crisscross pattern on the cookies.
8. 8.
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
9. 9.
   Remove from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Palm Sugar — If palm sugar is not available, you can substitute it with an equal amount of brown sugar or coconut sugar.
• Ground Peanuts — For a smoother texture, you can use finely ground peanuts. Alternatively, you can substitute it with ground almonds or omit it altogether for a nut-free version.
• Vanilla Extract — Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, you can add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the cookie dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter cookie, you can sprinkle some granulated sugar on top of the cookies before baking.
• Allow the cookies to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to maintain their texture and freshness.
• These cookies make a wonderful homemade gift. Package them in a decorative tin or jar for a thoughtful present.

Serving advice

Serve these Sierra Leonean Spiced Cookies with a hot cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. They are also perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet ending to a West African-inspired meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a platter or a decorative plate. Dust them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can also garnish the platter with fresh mint leaves or a sprinkle of ground cinnamon for added visual appeal.