Product Details

Mace is a distinctive spice derived from the outer covering of the nutmeg seed, known as the aril. This reddish-brown, lacy layer is dried and ground to produce a spice with a warm, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor, often compared to nutmeg but with a more delicate and complex profile.

Mace is used in various culinary traditions, adding depth to both sweet and savory dishes. In cooking, it is employed in spice blends, curries, soups, stews, and sauces, where its unique flavor enhances the overall taste of the dish. It is also a key ingredient in many baked goods, such as cakes, cookies, and pastries, where it imparts a warm, aromatic quality.

Beyond its culinary uses, mace has been valued in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits. It contains essential oils and compounds like eugenol, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Mace is believed to aid digestion, relieve symptoms of nausea and indigestion, and promote overall gastrointestinal health.

The spice is available in both whole and ground forms, with whole mace pieces offering a more intense flavor when freshly grated. Mace is often used in small quantities due to its potent flavor, which can easily overpower other ingredients.

Mace-Spiced Butter Cookies


Main Ingredients

For Mace-Spiced Butter Cookies:

  • 1 cup All-purpose flour (maida)
  • 1/2 cup Butter (softened)
  • 1/4 cup Powdered sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon Mace powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon Baking powder
  • A pinch of Salt
  • 1-2 tablespoons Milk (if needed for dough consistency)

Instruction

Step 1 - Prepare the Cookie Dough

  • Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

  • In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

  • Add the vanilla extract and mace powder, mixing them into the butter-sugar mixture.

  • In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk to bring it together.

Step 2 - Shape the Cookies

  • Take small portions of the dough and roll them into balls, then flatten them gently with your fingers or the back of a spoon.

  • Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1-2 inches apart.

Step 3 - Bake the Cookies

  • Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges start turning golden brown.

  • Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes.

Garnish and Serve

  • Once the cookies have cooled, they are ready to be served. These Mace-Spiced Butter Cookies have a delightful, aromatic flavour with the warm, subtle spiciness of mace that will tantalize your taste buds.

Tips for Perfect Mace-Spiced Butter Cookies

  • Texture: To achieve a perfectly crisp texture, avoid overmixing the dough.

  • Mace Flavor: If you prefer a stronger mace flavor, you can increase the quantity to 1/2 teaspoon.

  • Storage: Store the cooled cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.

Why You'll Love Mace-Spiced Butter Cookies:

  • Aromatic: The addition of mace adds a fragrant, subtle spiciness, making these cookies unique and delightful.

  • Easy and Quick: The simple ingredients and quick baking time make this an easy treat to whip up when you need something sweet.

  • Perfect with Tea or Coffee: These cookies are the perfect companion to your afternoon tea or coffee.

Yield

24 small cookies

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

15 minutes

Total Time

30 minutes

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