Alice Medrich’s Peanut Butter Cookies are a delicious treat known for their rich peanut butter flavor. Let’s break down the information you requested:
What is it?
Alice Medrich’s Peanut Butter Cookies are classic peanut butter-flavored cookies that are both sweet and slightly salty. They have a soft and chewy texture, making them a favorite among cookie enthusiasts.
History:
Alice Medrich is a renowned American pastry chef and cookbook author known for her expertise in desserts and baked goods. While I don’t have specific information about the history of her peanut butter cookie recipe, it’s safe to say that peanut butter cookies themselves have been enjoyed in the United States for many decades.
Components:
Here are the typical components of peanut butter cookies:
- Peanut Butter: The star ingredient that gives these cookies their distinct flavor.
- Butter: Provides richness and helps with the cookie’s texture.
- Sugar: Both granulated and brown sugar are used for sweetness and moisture.
- Egg: Binds the dough together and adds structure.
- Flour: The primary dry ingredient that gives the cookies structure.
- Baking Soda: A leavening agent that helps the cookies rise.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds a pleasant aroma and flavor.
Steps to Prepare Alice Medrich’s Peanut Butter Cookies:
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Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
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Cream Butter and Sugars: In a mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened butter, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar until smooth and creamy.
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Add Peanut Butter: Mix in 1 cup of peanut butter until well combined.
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Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in 1 large egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 3/4 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
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Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until the dough forms.
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Form Cookies: Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
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Flatten and Bake: Flatten each cookie slightly with a fork, creating a crisscross pattern. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
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Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Total Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Alice Medrich’s Peanut Butter Cookies is approximately 30-40 minutes, including preparation and baking time. This may vary slightly depending on your oven and baking experience.
Enjoy your homemade peanut butter cookies! They are perfect for satisfying your sweet cravings and sharing smiles with friends and family.
Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Alice Medrich’s Peanut Butter Cookies (per serving, assuming a standard-sized cookie):
- Calories: Approximately 150-180 calories
- Total Fat: 9-11 grams
- Saturated Fat: 3-4 grams
- Cholesterol: 15-20 milligrams
- Sodium: 100-120 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 1-2 grams
- Sugars: 8-10 grams
- Protein: 3-4 grams
Health Information:
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Moderation: Peanut butter cookies can be high in calories, primarily due to the fat content. Enjoy them in moderation to maintain a balanced diet.
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Protein Source: Peanut butter provides some protein, which can help keep you feeling satisfied.
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Healthy Fats: While they contain fats, peanut butter cookies also offer healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats from the peanut butter, which can be beneficial in moderation.
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Sugars: Be mindful of the sugar content. These cookies typically contain added sugars, so limit your consumption if you’re watching your sugar intake.
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Portion Control: It’s easy to overindulge in cookies, so try to stick to one or two servings to manage your calorie intake.
Remember that the actual nutritional values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and recipe variations used. If you have dietary restrictions or specific health concerns, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.
