Do you ever wonder how a simple combination of sweet and savory can transform your dessert table? With this Salted Honey Cookies Recipe, you’ll unlock a delightful balance of flavors that can make any gathering feel special. Studies show that desserts with a contrasting flavor profile, like salty and sweet, tend to be more satisfying, keeping diners coming back for more. Intrigued? Let’s dive into how you can create these enchanting cookies at home.
Ingredients Needed
Gather the following ingredients to whip up your delicious salted honey cookies:
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature): This is the base of your cookie dough, providing a rich flavor and a tender texture.
- 2 tablespoons oil: Adding oil enhances moisture and helps create a chewier cookie.
- 1 cup light brown sugar: For that deep, caramelized flavor and moisture retention.
- ¼ cup honey: Sweetens the cookies naturally and adds a wonderful floral note.
- 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour: The structure of the cookies; can be swapped with gluten-free flour if needed.
- 2 teaspoons baking soda: This leavening agent helps your cookies rise perfectly.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon: Adds warmth and aromatic complexity.
- Fleur de Sel: An elegant finishing touch that elevates the sweet-salty contrast.
Timing
Creating these Salted Honey Cookies is a breeze! Here’s a breakdown of the time involved:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Chilling Time: 1 ½ hours (this is crucial, so don’t skip it!)
- Baking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours (which is significantly less than many comparable cookie recipes)
How to Make Salted Honey Cookies Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the room temperature butter, oil, light brown sugar, and honey. Using a paddle attachment, mix on medium speed until the mixture becomes smooth and consistent, about 1 minute. This step ensures that your cookies will have a rich, buttery base.
Step 2: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients
Add in the egg and vanilla extract, stirring on low speed until well combined. Remember to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is mixed evenly.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to the wet mixture. Mix on low speed until fully incorporated. Once again, scrape down the bowl to fold in any stubborn dry ingredients.
Step 4: Form the Cookies
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Using a large cookie scoop or tablespoon, portion out 3 tablespoon-sized rounds of dough onto the prepared sheet. Once all dough balls are formed, cover the sheet pan and refrigerate for about 1 ½ hours. This chilling step prevents the cookies from spreading too much during baking and allows for enhanced flavor development.
Step 5: Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange just under half of the chilled cookie dough balls evenly on a second parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10 minutes, or until you notice the edges are set and just beginning to brown.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
Immediately after removing the cookies, sprinkle each with a pinch of fleur de sel to achieve that quintessential salty-sweet balance. Allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack. For the best texture and flavor, let them set up a bit before digging in. Repeat the baking and finishing process with the remaining dough.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the nutritional breakdown per cookie (based on a standard recipe producing 24 cookies):
- Calories: 120
- Total Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 60mg
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 1g
This means indulging in a couple of these treats won’t set you back too much nutritionally, making them a great option for a snack or dessert.
Healthier Alternatives For Salted Honey Cookies Recipe
Want to make a healthier version? Here are some swaps to consider:
- Butter: Use coconut oil or applesauce for a dairy-free alternative.
- Brown Sugar: Substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.
- Flour: Use almond flour or a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary restrictions.
- Honey: Consider agave nectar if you’re looking for a vegan alternative.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are perfect as they are, but here are a few serving ideas to elevate them:
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream.
- Serve alongside a hot cup of herbal tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for extra indulgence.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Skipping the Chill Time: This step is vital for texture; bypassing it leads to flat cookies.
- Overmixing the Dough: Extends the gluten and can make cookies tough; mix just until combined.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat and use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
Storing Tips For Salted Honey Cookies Recipe
To keep your cookies fresh, follow these tips:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- You can freeze the unbaked dough for up to 3 months. Just scoop out the dough, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- To refresh slightly stale cookies, pop them in a warm oven (200°F) for a few minutes before serving.
Conclusion
This Salted Honey Cookies Recipe offers an alluring blend of sweet and savory that is perfect for any occasion. With straightforward steps and simple ingredients, you can impress your family and friends with your baking skills. We encourage you to try this recipe and share your thoughts! For more delightful recipes and baking tips, check out the rest of our blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I substitute for honey in this recipe?
You may use maple syrup or agave nectar as a direct substitute for honey in this cookie recipe.
How long do these cookies last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, these cookies can last up to one week at room temperature.
Can I freeze these cookies after baking?
Absolutely! Baked cookies can be frozen for up to three months. Ensure they are stored in a sealed container to protect against freezer burn.
Why is chilling the dough important?
Chilling the dough firms it up, preventing the cookies from spreading too much while baking. It also enhances the flavor!
By following these guidelines, you can create delicious salted honey cookies that are sure to become a favorite in your household!
Print
Salted Honey Cookies
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 120 minutes
- Yield: 24 cookies 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delightful salted honey cookies that balance sweet and savory flavors, perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- ¼ cup honey
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
- Fleur de Sel (for finishing)
Instructions
- In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine butter, oil, brown sugar, and honey and mix on medium speed until smooth.
- Add egg and vanilla, stirring on low speed until well combined.
- Add flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon; mix on low speed until fully incorporated.
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and scoop tablespoon-sized dough rounds onto it. Cover and refrigerate for 1 ½ hours.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake cookie dough balls on a parchment-lined sheet for about 10 minutes.
- Sprinkle with fleur de sel immediately after baking and allow to cool on a wire rack.
Notes
Chilling the dough is essential for the best texture. Store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cookie
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
