Milk cookies – the name alone evokes a sense of pure, comforting goodness. They’re the kind of cookie that takes you back to childhood, filled with the warmth of a glass of milk and the simple joys of life. Buttery, with a hint of sweetness, these little treasures are surprisingly easy to make. Yes, you read that right! Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of milk cookies, and I promise, by the end of this, you’ll be ready to whip up a batch in your own kitchen.
Milk Cookies: A Classic Treat Made Easy
Before we tie on our aprons, let’s talk about why milk cookies are so special. Their mild, milky flavor makes them a perfect pairing for a hot beverage, be it coffee, tea, or of course, a cold glass of milk. They’re not overly sweet, which makes them perfect for those who prefer a more delicate taste. Plus, their simple ingredient list means you probably already have everything you need in your pantry. Ready to bake? Let’s get started!
Gathering Your Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make a batch of these delightful milk cookies:
- 2 1/4 cups (281g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional: For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of almond extract or a pinch of nutmeg.
Tools of the Trade
You won’t need any fancy equipment for this recipe, just a few baking staples:
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer)
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
- Wire rack for cooling
Baking the Perfect Milk Cookie: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line your baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
- Whisk the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Together the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Incorporate the Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Gradually Add the Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
- Shape and Bake: Drop the dough by rounded tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden brown.
- Cool and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Milk Cookies Cooling on Rack
Tips for Milk Cookie Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients are Key: Using softened butter and room-temperature eggs will help create a smoother, more evenly blended dough.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the dough can lead to tough cookies. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Uniformity is Key: For even baking, try to make all the cookies roughly the same size.
FAQs: Your Milk Cookie Questions Answered
Q: Can I freeze milk cookie dough?
A: Absolutely! You can freeze the dough for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, let the dough thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
Q: What can I do with leftover milk cookies?
A: Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.
Q: Can I add other mix-ins to my milk cookies?
A: Get creative! Chocolate chips, sprinkles, dried fruit, or nuts would all be delicious additions.
Elevate Your Baking Repertoire
These milk cookies are just the beginning! If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out our other cookie recipes like our Peanut Butter Blossoms, Ginger Snaps, and Eggnog Cookies for more baking inspiration.
Milk Cookie Ingredients
The Joy of Baking
There’s something truly magical about the process of baking. It’s a way to show love, create memories, and share joy with those around you. So go ahead, preheat that oven, and experience the simple pleasure of baking a batch of melt-in-your-mouth milk cookies. Happy baking!
