A Journey Beyond the Cookie Jar
Step away from the ordinary and embrace a cookie that’s as adventurous as you are. We’ve taken the comforting embrace of a classic peanut butter cookie and infused it with the vibrant, complex flavors of Southeast Asia. The initial sweetness gives way to a slow, warming heat and a citrusy finish, creating a multi-layered experience that will delight and surprise your palate. This isn’t just a cookie; it’s a conversation starter.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
12-15 minutes
Servings
24 cookies
Cuisine: American-Thai Fusion | Diet: None | Skill Level: Beginner | Cost: Affordable
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 to 2 teaspoons Thai chili flakes (adjust to your heat preference)
- Zest of 1 large lime
- Optional: Coarse sea salt and extra lime zest for topping
👨🍳 Chef’s Tips
- For an extra flavor dimension, toast the Thai chili flakes in a dry pan for 30 seconds before adding to the flour mixture.
- Don’t have Thai chili? A pinch of cayenne pepper and a few red pepper flakes can work in a pinch, but the flavor will be different.
- The dough can be made ahead and chilled for up to 3 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before scooping.
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and ensures even baking.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, peanut butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process incorporates air, which is key for a tender cookie.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The mixture should look emulsified and smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and lime zest until a fragrant citrus aroma is released.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, ground ginger, and Thai chili flakes. Whisking ensures the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed, so every cookie has the perfect balance of flavor and rise.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can develop gluten and result in tough cookies. The final dough should be thick and smell nutty with a spicy, citrusy undertone.
Cooking
- Scoop dough by rounded tablespoonfuls and roll into 1.5-inch balls. Place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets.
- Using a fork, gently press down on each ball to create a classic crisscross pattern. This not only looks traditional but also helps the cookie bake more evenly.
- If desired, sprinkle the tops with a pinch of coarse sea salt and a little extra lime zest for a final burst of flavor and texture.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are a firm golden-brown and the centers are just set. The kitchen will be filled with a complex aroma of roasted peanuts, warm ginger, and spicy chili.
- Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will firm up as they cool.
Serving
Serve at room temperature. The flavors meld and become more complex as they cool. Perfect with a cold glass of milk or a cup of green tea to balance the spice.
Storage
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The spice level may intensify slightly by the second day.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 10g |
The Perfect Balance of Sweet and Heat
Congratulations on creating a cookie that defies expectation. Each bite is a testament to how classic comfort can be elevated with a touch of global inspiration. Share them with friends who appreciate a little adventure in their desserts!
Tags: peanut butter cookies, spicy cookie, Thai chili recipe, lime and ginger, unique cookies
Hungry for more?
For more delicious northern recipes, check out our Melgund: Come Eat With Me Cookbook! Serving the communities of Dyment and Borups Corners in Melgund Township, Northwestern Ontario. This digital literacy and food security program is supported by Art Borups Corners and Melgund Recreation, Arts and Culture.
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