๐ช Angel Flake Cookies: A Heavenly Delight ๐ช
Angel Flake Cookies are delectable treats that melt in your mouth, just like the heavenly clouds they are named after. These delightful cookies are known for their light and tender texture, making them a favorite among both children and adults. Let’s dive into the world of Angel Flake Cookies, exploring their history, components, preparation steps, and the time needed to make them.
๐ History: Angel Flake Cookies have a somewhat mysterious origin, but they are believed to have been inspired by traditional Southern American coconut macaroons. These cookies likely gained popularity in the United States during the mid-20th century. They are often associated with a brand of sweetened flaked coconut called “Angel Flake,” which was trademarked by the Baker’s Chocolate Company. Over time, the recipe for these cookies has evolved, and various versions can be found today.
๐ง Components:
- 2 2/3 cups of sweetened flaked coconut (like “Angel Flake”)
- 2/3 cup of granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
๐ฉโ๐ณ Preparation Steps:
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 325ยฐF (162ยฐC). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the sweetened flaked coconut, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients together until they are well combined.
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Whisk Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, whisk the four large egg whites until they become frothy. You can use a hand mixer or do this by hand.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the frothy egg whites and pure vanilla extract to the bowl of dry ingredients. Gently fold everything together until you have a cohesive mixture.
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Form Cookies: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of the cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
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Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 18-20 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown on the edges and set in the center. Keep a close eye on them to avoid over-baking.
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Cool: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
๐ Time Needed: The total time needed to prepare Angel Flake Cookies is approximately 30-35 minutes, including both preparation and baking time. This can vary slightly depending on your oven’s performance.
๐ผ Angel Flake Cookies are a delightful treat that embodies the essence of simplicity and heavenly flavor. Share these tender and coconutty cookies with your loved ones, and you’ll surely have them coming back for more! Enjoy baking these little bites of paradise! ๐๐ช
๐ช Nutrition Facts and Health Information for Angel Flake Cookies ๐ช
Angel Flake Cookies are undoubtedly delicious, but they are also a sweet treat that should be enjoyed in moderation. Here are some nutrition facts and health information to consider:
๐ Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values for 1 Cookie):
- Calories: About 80-90 calories per cookie.
- Total Fat: Around 5-6 grams.
- Saturated Fat: About 4-5 grams.
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 7-8 grams.
- Sugars: About 6-7 grams.
- Protein: Less than 1 gram.
โ๏ธ Health Information:
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Moderation: Angel Flake Cookies are high in sugar and saturated fat, which makes them a treat to be enjoyed in moderation. Excessive consumption may contribute to weight gain and other health issues.
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Coconut Benefits: These cookies contain sweetened flaked coconut, which is a source of healthy fats. Coconut is also rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, the added sugar should be monitored.
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Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes. It’s easy to consume multiple cookies at once, so consider limiting your intake to maintain a balanced diet.
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Nutritional Variation: Nutrition content can vary depending on the specific recipe and brands of ingredients used. Homemade versions may offer more control over the ingredients.
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Allergen Considerations: Angel Flake Cookies typically contain egg whites. Be cautious if you have allergies.
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Balance: Balance these cookies with a well-rounded diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to ensure you’re meeting your nutritional needs.
Remember, enjoying sweets like Angel Flake Cookies in moderation as part of a balanced diet can still be a delightful indulgence. Always consider your dietary preferences and any health conditions when enjoying such treats. ๐๐ช