- Walnuts or Pecans (Optional, Adds Texture and Nutty Flavor)
Note: Butternut squash cookies are a unique twist on traditional cookie recipes. Highlighting butternut squash as the primary ingredient can attract searchers looking for creative and nutritious baking ideas.
Steps
### How to Make Delicious Butternut Squash Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide
Butternut squash cookies are not only unique but also packed with flavor and nutritional benefits! If you're looking for a sweet treat that's both comforting and nutritious, this recipe is perfect for you. Follow these detailed steps to create your own batch of these delightful cookies.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 0.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup pureed butternut squash (about 8 ounces raw)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
#### Equipment:
- Large mixing bowl
- Small whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Electric mixer or wooden spoon
- Cookie scoop or tablespoon
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Oven
#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cookies bake evenly and achieve a perfect texture.
2. **Prepare Your Dry Ingredients**: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set this mixture aside for now.
3. **Cream the Butter and Sugar**: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer or a wooden spoon to cream 3 tablespoons of softened butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.
4. **Add Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, stirring well after each addition. Ensure that all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
5. **Incorporate Butternut Squash and Spices**: Fold in the pureed butternut squash (ensure it's smooth) and 0.5 teaspoon of ground cinnamon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want a slightly lumpy batter for best texture.
6. **Beat in Egg and Vanilla**: Mix in one large egg, followed by 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Continue stirring gently but thoroughly until everything is well mixed.
7. **Scoop and Bake**: Use a cookie scoop or tablespoon to portion out the dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This ensures they have enough room to spread without merging.
8. **Bake Until Set**: Place your cookies in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 15-17 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set but still slightly soft when touched gently.
9. **Cool Before Serving**: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for about 10 minutes before transferring your cookies to a cooling tray or plate. This allows them to firm up just enough for serving.
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Enjoy these delicious butternut squash cookies, perfect for fall or any time you crave something sweet and comforting!