Feta cheese cookies – does the combination surprise you? These aren’t your typical sweet treats; they’re savory, tangy, and utterly addictive. Imagine biting into a warm, crumbly cookie with the sharp, salty flavor of feta cheese complementing the buttery dough. These cookies are perfect as a unique appetizer, a conversation starter at your next gathering, or a delightful snack with a bowl of soup.
Intrigued? I was too when I first heard of them. The idea of cheese in a cookie was so unusual, I just had to give it a try. And let me tell you, I haven’t looked back since! They’re surprisingly easy to make, and the payoff is big. Ready to impress your taste buds? Let’s get baking!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a batch of these savory wonders, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 6 ounces crumbled feta cheese
- 1 large egg yolk
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or oregano work well)
You probably have most of these ingredients in your pantry already! If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding fresh herbs for an extra burst of flavor.
Feta Cheese and Cookie Ingredients
Tools of the Trade
You’ll need just a few basic baking tools:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (optional, but makes mixing easier)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
Step-by-Step Baking Guide
Now, let’s get down to business!
- Cream the Butter and Feta: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and crumbled feta cheese until the mixture is light and fluffy. If you’re using an electric mixer, this will take about 2-3 minutes.
- Incorporate the Egg Yolk: Add the egg yolk to the butter-feta mixture and beat until well combined.
- Gradually Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and pepper. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
- Herb Infusion (Optional): If you’re using fresh herbs, gently fold them into the dough.
- Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Shape and Bake: Roll the chilled dough out on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
- Cooling and Serving: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Cookie Perfection
- Feta Brine: For a more intense feta flavor, try brushing the unbaked cookies with a little bit of the feta brine before baking.
- Storage: Store leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
- Don’t Overbake: Keep a close eye on the cookies while they’re baking. They’re done when the edges are just starting to turn golden brown.
Freshly Baked Feta Cheese Cookies
FAQs about Feta Cheese Cookies
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While feta cheese provides the signature tangy flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like goat cheese, Parmesan, or even cheddar. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the cookies will vary depending on the cheese you choose.
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! These cookies are great for making ahead of time. You can bake them a day or two in advance and store them in an airtight container.
A Savory Delight Awaits
These feta cheese cookies are a testament to the fact that savory cookies can be just as satisfying as their sweet counterparts. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to impress your guests. So go ahead, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the delightful surprise of feta cheese cookies!
Don’t forget to share your baking adventures with us! Leave a comment below and let us know how your feta cheese cookies turned out. And for more culinary inspiration and delicious recipes, be sure to explore the rest of our website. Happy baking!
