World Peace Cookies, with their rich chocolate flavor accented by a hint of sea salt, are more than just a delicious treat; they are a symbol of hope and unity. The name itself suggests a dream of bringing people together through the universal language of sweets. These cookies, studded with bittersweet chocolate and optional walnuts, offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making them an ideal treat for sharing and reflecting on the simple pleasures that can bring us all a little closer.
Baking with a Mission
The process of making these cookies is as satisfying as their mission. The dough, enriched with cocoa and bittersweet chocolate, results in a deeply flavored, slightly chewy treat that’s irresistible. Preparing these cookies not only fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma but also provides an opportunity to spread a message of peace and goodwill through the simple act of sharing.
- Preparation time: 3 hours 20 minutes (includes chilling)
- Cooking time: 12 minutes
- Serving: Makes about 24 cookies
- Equipment: Mixing bowls, electric mixer, baking sheets, parchment paper
World Peace Cookies Recipe:
This recipe is straightforward but requires a bit of planning due to the chilling time, which helps the cookies maintain their shape and enhances their texture.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 5 ounces bittersweet chocolate (not exceeding 70% cacao), chopped into chips
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Directions:
- Sift Dry Ingredients: Sift the flour, cocoa powder, and baking soda together into a bowl to ensure there are no lumps, which contributes to the smooth texture of the cookies.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and both sugars together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step is crucial for the right texture.
- Add Flavorings and Dry Ingredients: Mix in the salt and vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour mixture, mixing just until combined to prevent the cookies from becoming tough.
- Incorporate Chocolate and Nuts: Stir in the chopped chocolate and walnuts, if using, distributing them evenly throughout the dough.
- Form Logs and Chill: Turn the dough out onto a work surface, gather it together, and divide it into two halves. Shape each half into a log about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Wrap the logs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours.
- Preheat and Slice: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Slice the chilled logs into 1/2-inch thick rounds and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
- Bake: Bake the cookies for 12 minutes. They should be just set and not hard.
- Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Celebrate Every Bite
World Peace Cookies are a testament to the power of baking to convey messages and emotions. Share these cookies with friends, family, or neighbors as a gesture of goodwill and togetherness. Each bite is a reminder that even small acts, like baking and sharing cookies, can contribute to a greater sense of community and peace.
