In the world of desserts, cookies hold a special place in our hearts. They are the perfect treat for any occasion, whether it's a cozy evening at home or a gathering with friends. Among the countless cookie recipes out there, there's one that stands out from the rest - our Test Kitchen's take on classic cornflake cookies. A few key ingredients set this recipe apart, adding both unique texture and mouth - watering flavor.
Let's start with the star ingredients. Crunchy cornflakes are the first thing that makes these cookies special. When incorporated into the dough, they bring a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the cookie base. The cornflakes add an extra layer of texture that keeps you coming back for more with every bite. Toasted nuts are another essential component. Whether it's almonds, walnuts, or pecans, the toasting process enhances their natural oils and flavors, infusing the cookies with a rich, nutty taste. And then there are the quick - cooking oats. Oats not only add a healthy element to the cookies but also contribute to their chewy texture. They absorb some of the moisture from the dough, creating a more substantial and satisfying bite.
Now, let's dive into the process of making these delicious cornflake cookies. First, gather all your ingredients. You'll need butter, sugar (both white and brown for a balanced sweetness), eggs, vanilla extract, flour, baking soda, salt, cornflakes, toasted nuts, and quick - cooking oats. Begin by creaming the butter and sugars together in a large bowl. Use an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, resulting in a lighter cookie.
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. The eggs act as a binder, holding all the ingredients together. Then, stir in the vanilla extract for that classic cookie flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to over - mix, as this can make the cookies tough.
Once the dough is well - combined, it's time to add the star ingredients. Fold in the crunchy cornflakes, toasted nuts, and quick - cooking oats. Make sure they are evenly distributed throughout the dough. At this point, you can also customize the recipe by adding chocolate chips or dried fruits if you like.
Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature (usually around 375°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space between each cookie for them to spread. Bake for about 8 - 10 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
After baking, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. This allows them to set and develop their final texture. Now, here's a great tip - you can make and store these cookies up to three months ahead. Simply let the cooled cookies come to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container. You can layer them with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. Store the container in a cool, dry place, and when you're ready for a sweet treat, just take out a few cookies and enjoy.
In conclusion, our Test Kitchen's classic cornflake cookies are a must - try for any cookie lover. With their unique combination of crunchy cornflakes, toasted nuts, and quick - cooking oats, they offer a flavor and texture experience that is truly unforgettable. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start baking these delicious cookies today!
