Ammonia Cookies

🍪 Ammonia Cookies 🍪

Ammonia cookies, also known as “ammonium bicarbonate cookies” or “smell-biscuits,” are a unique type of cookie with a rich history. These cookies are famous for their distinctive taste and the unusual ingredient they contain: ammonia or ammonium bicarbonate. Here’s everything you need to know about them:

📜 History:
Ammonia cookies have a long history dating back to the 18th century in Europe. They were initially popular in countries like Germany, Sweden, and Denmark. The use of ammonia in baking was common before the advent of modern baking powder and baking soda. Ammonium bicarbonate, or “hartshorn,” was often used as a leavening agent in baking. These cookies were a way to utilize this leavening agent in sweet treats.

🧪 Components:
The key components of ammonia cookies are:

• Ammonium Bicarbonate: This is the unique ingredient that gives the cookies their characteristic crispiness and distinctive smell. It’s a leavening agent that produces carbon dioxide gas when heated, causing the cookies to rise and become light and airy.
• Butter: Provides richness and flavor.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and texture.
• Flour: The main dry ingredient that forms the structure of the cookies.
• Flavorings: Various flavorings like vanilla extract, almond extract, or lemon zest can be added for taste.

👩‍🍳 Steps to Prepare Ammonia Cookies:
Here’s a basic recipe for making ammonia cookies:

Ingredients:

• 200g butter
• 200g sugar
• 400g all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ammonium bicarbonate
• 1-2 tsp flavoring of your choice (e.g., vanilla extract)
• A pinch of salt

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the flavoring (e.g., vanilla extract) and mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, ammonium bicarbonate, and a pinch of salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
6. Roll the dough into small balls or shape it as desired.
7. Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cookies are lightly golden.
9. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.

⏰ Preparation Time:
The preparation time for ammonia cookies is relatively short, typically taking about 30 minutes from start to finish, including baking time. This makes them a convenient treat to whip up when you’re craving a unique and nostalgic cookie experience.

Enjoy your homemade ammonia cookies! Just remember that while they may have a strong smell during baking due to the ammonia, the smell dissipates, leaving behind delicious, crisp cookies. 😄🍪

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for ammonia cookies:

🍪 Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for 1 Cookie):

• Calories: Around 50-70 calories per cookie
• Total Fat: 2-4 grams
• Saturated Fat: 1-2 grams
• Carbohydrates: 6-8 grams
• Sugars: 2-3 grams
• Protein: 1-2 grams

Please note that these values can vary depending on the specific recipe and portion size. Ammonia cookies are typically small and quite low in protein.

🌿 Health Information:

1. Moderation: Ammonia cookies are a sweet treat, and like any other dessert, they should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

2. Ammonium Bicarbonate: While ammonium bicarbonate is used as a leavening agent in these cookies, it is generally considered safe to consume in small quantities. However, some people may be sensitive to the ammonia smell during baking.

3. Sugar Content: These cookies contain sugar, which should be consumed in moderation to maintain overall health. Excessive sugar intake can lead to various health issues.

4. Caloric Intake: Be mindful of your caloric intake if you are watching your weight. These cookies are relatively low in calories, but portion control is important.

5. Allergens: Check the ingredients for potential allergens such as nuts or gluten if you have allergies or dietary restrictions.

6. Nutritional Value: Ammonia cookies are not a significant source of essential nutrients. They are primarily enjoyed for their taste and texture rather than their nutritional content.

Remember that the nutritional value of these cookies can vary based on the specific recipe and ingredients used. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, it’s a good idea to adapt the recipe to better suit your needs or enjoy them as an occasional indulgence.