Lancashire Cookies

This delightful recipe for Lancashire cookies was generously shared by Zoya, a cherished member of our online community and a talented home cook. Zoya’s thoughtful contribution, especially during the festive occasion of Eid, highlights the spirit of sharing and celebration ingrained in our culinary traditions. These cookies hold a special place in her family’s heart, serving as a beloved Eid treat cherished by her children for their irresistible flavor and comforting familiarity.

Ingredients:

For the Cookies:

– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 and 1/2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)

For Garnishing:

– Additional rolled oats for topping

Cooking Process:

Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Dough:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Stir in the rolled oats and raisins or chocolate chips, if using, until evenly distributed throughout the dough.

Step 2: Shape and Bake the Cookies:

1. Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
2. Flatten each cookie slightly with the back of a spoon or your fingers.
3. Sprinkle a few additional rolled oats on top of each cookie for garnish, pressing them lightly into the dough.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
5. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Garnishing or Visualizing:

– Serve the Lancashire cookies warm with a glass of milk for a comforting treat.
– Stack the cookies on a decorative plate or arrange them in a cookie jar for a charming presentation.
– To add an extra touch of sweetness, drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cookies or sandwich a scoop of ice cream between two cookies for an indulgent dessert.

Notes and Tips:

1. Butter Temperature: Make sure the butter is softened but not melted. Softened butter will cream more easily with the sugars, resulting in a better texture for your cookies.
2. Mix-ins: Get creative with your mix-ins! Try adding chopped nuts, dried fruit, or even shredded coconut to customize the flavor and texture of your Lancashire cookies.
3. Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cookies as they bake, as oven temperatures may vary. Remove them from the oven when the edges are lightly golden for soft and chewy cookies, or leave them in a bit longer for a crispier texture.
4. Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. You can also freeze the cookies for longer storage – just thaw them at room temperature before enjoying.