West African Spiced Shortbread Cookies

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Scottish Petticoat Tails are transformed into West African Spiced Shortbread Cookies by incorporating the vibrant flavors of West African cuisine. The addition of ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg infuses the cookies with warm and aromatic notes, while a touch of honey adds a subtle sweetness. These changes create a unique fusion of Scottish and West African culinary traditions, resulting in a delightful treat that showcases the best of both worlds. We alse have the original recipe for Petticoat Tails, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 4g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 13g, 4g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• 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 mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and honey until light and fluffy.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. 5.
   Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
6. 6.
   Use a cookie cutter to cut out desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. 7.
   Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies turn golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on a wire rack before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar and honey.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom to the dough.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can dust the cookies with powdered sugar after they have cooled down.
• To achieve a more authentic West African taste, you can substitute the honey with a tablespoon of molasses.

Serving advice

Serve these West African Spiced Shortbread Cookies as a delightful accompaniment to a cup of hot tea or coffee. They are perfect for afternoon tea or as a sweet treat to enjoy with friends and family.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a decorative platter or a wooden serving board. You can sprinkle a touch of ground cinnamon or ginger on top for an added visual appeal.