Moon Biscuits (Moon-Shaped Baked Cookies) Recipe
Description:
Moon Biscuits, also known as moon-shaped baked cookies, are a popular treat from Hyderabad, renowned for their delicate texture and rich flavor. These biscuits are made with a simple blend of maida (all-purpose flour), butter, and a touch of vanilla, making them a beloved snack that evokes nostalgia for many. The recipe was passed down to me by my Guru, Sanjay Thumma, and it has been a favorite of mine since childhood. These cookies are light, buttery, and melt in your mouth, perfect for pairing with tea or a refreshing masala chai.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Vivatta Maida (All-purpose flour) | 300 grams |
| Sugar (Confectioner’s sugar) | 75 grams |
| Butter (Unsalted) | 175 grams |
| Milk Powder | 15 grams |
| Baking Powder | 1 pinch |
| Vanilla Extract | 1/2 teaspoon |
Preparation & Cooking Time:
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 25 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 300 grams of Vivatta maida (all-purpose flour), 15 grams of milk powder, and 1 pinch of baking powder. Mix them thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of the dry ingredients.
-
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Prepare the Wet Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, take 175 grams of unsalted butter that has been softened to room temperature. Add 75 grams of powdered sugar (confectioner’s sugar) and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix them well until the butter becomes light and fluffy, and the sugar has dissolved completely.
-
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Stir to combine until a dough forms. If the dough feels too sticky, you can lightly dust it with some maida, but it should come together easily.
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Roll the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface using a rolling pin. Flatten the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
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Shape the Biscuits:
- Use a round cookie cutter to cut the dough into small circles. You can also use a moon-shaped cutter for the signature moon shape. Arrange the shaped cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
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Bake the Biscuits:
- Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes or until the biscuits are lightly golden brown on the edges.
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Cool and Serve:
- Allow the moon biscuits to cool on a wire rack before serving. These biscuits are best enjoyed with a cup of Masala Chai (Indian spiced tea) or paired with Karachi Biscuits for a delightful tea-time experience.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per biscuit):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Protein | 1 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
Serving Suggestions:
Moon Biscuits are perfect for an afternoon tea or as a snack for special occasions. They pair wonderfully with Masala Chai or any of your favorite tea blends. For an extra touch of flavor, serve alongside Karachi Biscuits, offering a delightful combination of sweet and savory.
Enjoy the delicate, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of these homemade Moon Biscuits, and let them take you on a nostalgic journey of flavors from Hyderabad!
