Vanilla Wafer Cookies Recipe

Vanilla Wafer Cookies are light, crisp, and full of sweet vanilla flavor—perfect for snacking, dunking in milk, or using in dessert recipes like banana pudding. They’re easy to make with a few simple ingredients and can be baked in no time. Here’s a classic recipe for homemade vanilla wafer cookies:

Vanilla Wafer Cookies Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons milk (or more, if needed for dough consistency)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats for easy cleanup.

2. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer or a whisk. Beat for about 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy.

3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla:

• Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then add the vanilla extract and mix until fully incorporated.

4. Combine the Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and baking soda.

5. Mix the Wet and Dry Ingredients:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. If the dough seems too stiff, add the milk a little at a time until it reaches a thick but spreadable consistency.

6. Shape the Cookies:

• Scoop out about 1 teaspoon of dough for each cookie. Roll the dough into small balls and place them onto the prepared baking sheets. Use the back of a spoon or your fingers to gently flatten the dough balls into round discs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Leave some space between the cookies, as they will spread slightly while baking.

7. Bake:

• Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them as they can bake quickly depending on your oven.

8. Cool:

• Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Vanilla Wafer Cookies:

• Chill the Dough (Optional): If you want thicker cookies, chill the dough in the fridge for about 30 minutes before baking. This helps the cookies hold their shape better.
• Dough Consistency: If the dough is too sticky to handle, you can add a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until it’s manageable.
• Flavor Variations: If you like a stronger vanilla flavor, you can add a bit more vanilla extract or try using vanilla bean paste for a more intense vanilla taste.
• Storage: Store these cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

Serving Ideas:

• Snack on their own: These cookies are perfect for a quick, satisfying treat.
• Dunk in Milk: Just like classic store-bought vanilla wafers, they are great for dipping into a glass of milk.
• Use in Desserts: These cookies are often used as a base for desserts like banana pudding or ice cream cakes.

These Vanilla Wafer Cookies are simple yet delicious, and they have a wonderful balance of sweetness and vanilla flavor. Enjoy them as a treat on their own or as a base for your favorite desserts!