Malawian Spiced Sugar Cookies

Ingredients

In this Malawian adaptation of Snickerdoodles, we incorporate traditional Malawian spices like cardamom and nutmeg into the dough. These spices add a unique flavor profile that sets them apart from the original American version. Additionally, the Malawian Snickerdoodles have a slightly crispier texture compared to the softer American Snickerdoodles. We alse have the original recipe for Snickerdoodle, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar 1 1/2 teaspoons cream of tartar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for rolling) 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for rolling)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 17g, 10g
• Protein: 2g
• 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 medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cream of tartar, baking soda, and salt.
3. 3.
   In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. 4.
   Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. 5.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. 6.
   In a small bowl, combine the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar for rolling.
7. 7.
   Shape the dough into 1-inch balls and roll each ball in the spice mixture until coated.
8. 8.
   Place the coated dough balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
9. 9.
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
10. 10.
    Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming with the sugar.
• Cream of tartar — This ingredient helps to activate the baking soda and gives the cookies their characteristic tangy flavor.
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom — Use freshly ground spices for the best flavor. Adjust the amounts according to your preference for spiciness.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra burst of flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves to the spice mixture.
• If you prefer a softer texture, slightly underbake the cookies by reducing the baking time by 1-2 minutes.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and texture.

Serving advice

Serve these Malawian Spiced Sugar Cookies as a delightful treat with a cup of tea or coffee. They are perfect for afternoon tea gatherings or as a sweet ending to a meal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the cookies on a platter or a decorative cookie tin. Dust them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.