Discover the delightful twist on a classic treat with this recipe for EVOO Sugar Cookies. These cookies are a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with the rich flavor of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) adding a unique depth. Perfect for any occasion, these cookies are easy to make and will impress your friends and family with their distinctive taste. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special event, or just a cozy afternoon at home, these EVOO Sugar Cookies are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients for EVOO Sugar Cookies
For the Cookies
- All-Purpose Flour – 2 1/2 cups
- Baking Powder – 1 teaspoon
- Baking Soda – 1/2 teaspoon
- Salt – 1/4 teaspoon
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) – 1 cup
- Granulated Sugar – 1 cup
- Brown Sugar – 1/2 cup, packed
- Large Eggs – 2
- Vanilla Extract – 2 teaspoons
- Lemon Zest – 1 teaspoon (optional)
- Powdered Sugar – for dusting (optional)
For Decoration (Optional)
- Colored Sugar – for sprinkling
- Royal Icing – for decorating
How to Make EVOO Sugar Cookies
1. Prepare the Dough
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the extra virgin olive oil, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until well combined and creamy.
- Add Eggs and Flavoring: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and lemon zest (if using).
2. Form the Dough
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough.
- Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough helps to firm it up, making it easier to roll out and cut into shapes.
3. Roll and Cut the Dough
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
4. Bake the Cookies
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will set as the cookies cool.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
5. Decorate the Cookies (Optional)
- Decorate: If desired, decorate the cooled cookies with royal icing and colored sugar. You can also dust them with powdered sugar for a simple, elegant finish.
About the Main Ingredients
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)
Flavor and Texture: EVOO is the star of this recipe, providing a rich, fruity flavor that complements the sweetness of the cookies. It also gives the cookies a tender, moist texture.
Health Benefits: Unlike butter or margarine, olive oil is a heart-healthy fat, rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. This makes these cookies a slightly healthier indulgence.
All-Purpose Flour
Structure: All-purpose flour provides the structure for the cookies. It contains a balanced amount of protein, making it ideal for creating cookies that are both tender and sturdy enough to hold their shape.
Versatility: This flour is a staple in baking and is used in a wide variety of recipes, making it a convenient choice for these cookies.
Sugars
Granulated Sugar: This sugar adds sweetness and helps to create a crisp texture on the outside of the cookies.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a hint of molasses flavor and contributes to the chewiness of the cookies. It also helps to keep the cookies moist.
Eggs
Binding and Leavening: Eggs act as a binding agent, holding the ingredients together, and provide structure. They also help the cookies rise slightly, giving them a light, airy texture.
Vanilla Extract and Lemon Zest
Flavor Enhancers: Vanilla extract adds a warm, sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cookies. Lemon zest provides a subtle citrus note that brightens the flavor profile.
Baking Powder and Baking Soda
Leavening Agents: These ingredients help the cookies rise and create a light, tender texture. Baking powder is a combination of an acid and a base, while baking soda is purely a base. Together, they ensure the cookies have the right amount of lift.
EVOO Sugar Cookies are a delightful and unique twist on the classic sugar cookie, offering a rich flavor and tender texture thanks to the use of extra virgin olive oil. These cookies are perfect for any occasion and can be easily customized with your favorite decorations. The combination of simple ingredients and straightforward steps makes this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels. Enjoy baking and sharing these delicious cookies with your loved ones!
