Chinese Style Peanut Cookie Recipe

Roasted and ground peanuts: These provide the primary flavor and texture for the cookies. Make sure they are unsalted for the best results.

All-purpose flour: This is the base of the dough, giving structure to the cookies.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the nutty flavor of the peanuts.

Baking powder: Helps the cookies rise slightly, giving them a light texture.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cookies.

Vegetable oil: Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture to the dough.

Egg yolk: Used for the egg wash to give the cookies a golden brown finish.

To achieve a more uniform texture in your peanut cookies, ensure that the roasted peanuts are finely ground. You can use a food processor to achieve a consistent, fine powder. This will help the dough come together more smoothly and result in a more cohesive cookie. Additionally, when brushing the egg yolk on top, use a pastry brush for an even coating, which will give your cookies a beautiful, glossy finish.

• roasted and ground peanuts - Substitute with roasted and ground almonds: Almonds provide a similar nutty flavor and texture, making them a good alternative for those who may have a peanut allergy.

• all-purpose flour - Substitute with gluten-free flour blend: A gluten-free flour blend can be used to make the recipe suitable for those with gluten intolerance or celiac disease.

• sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar has a lower glycemic index and provides a caramel-like flavor, making it a healthier alternative.

• baking powder - Substitute with baking soda and cream of tartar: Use ¼ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon cream of tartar to replace 1 teaspoon of baking powder, as this combination mimics the leavening effect.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as it provides a more complex flavor profile compared to regular table salt.

• vegetable oil - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used for its similar fat content and it adds a subtle coconut flavor that complements the sweetness of the cookies.

• egg yolk - Substitute with milk or cream: Brushing the cookies with milk or cream can provide a similar golden finish without using eggs, suitable for those with egg allergies.

• To keep your Chinese Style Peanut Cookies fresh and delicious, store them in an airtight container. This will prevent them from becoming stale and keep their delightful crunch intact.

• Place a piece of parchment paper between each layer of cookies if you are stacking them. This will prevent them from sticking together and maintain their perfect shape.

• Store the container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. The pantry or a kitchen cabinet works well for this purpose.

• If you want to keep the cookies for a longer period, consider freezing them. First, allow the cookies to cool completely after baking.

• Arrange the cooled cookies on a baking sheet in a single layer. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour, or until the cookies are firm.

• Once the cookies are frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Be sure to label the container with the date so you can keep track of their freshness.

• When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cookies, simply take out the desired amount and let them thaw at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. They will taste just as fresh as the day you baked them.

• For an extra touch of indulgence, you can warm the thawed cookies in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. This will revive their delightful aroma and make them slightly crispier.

• Remember, homemade cookies like these can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. This way, you can always have a delicious treat on hand whenever the craving strikes.

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Warm them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they regain their delightful crunch. This method ensures they taste freshly baked.

• If you're in a hurry, use a microwave. Place the cookies on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds. Be cautious, as microwaving too long can make them chewy instead of crispy.

• For a toaster oven, set it to 300°F (150°C) and place the cookies directly on the rack or on a small baking tray. Heat for 5 minutes, checking frequently to avoid over-browning.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the cookies in a single layer in the basket and heat for 3-4 minutes. This method keeps them crispy without drying them out.

• For a stovetop method, use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Place the cookies in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, flipping gently to avoid breaking them. This method is great for small batches.

• Oven: Used to preheat and bake the cookies at the specified temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Mixing bowl: Used to combine the ground peanuts, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the vegetable oil accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the baking powder and salt precisely.

• Baking tray: Used to place the rolled dough balls for baking.

• Fork: Used to flatten the dough balls slightly before baking.

• Pastry brush: Used to brush the top of each cookie with egg yolk.

• Cooling rack: Used to let the cookies cool before serving.

• Spatula: Used to transfer the cookies from the baking tray to the cooling rack.

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure and prepare all ingredients in advance to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly grind roasted peanuts using a food processor instead of manually.

Batch rolling: Roll multiple dough balls at once to save time.

Preheat the oven: Start preheating the oven while you prepare the dough to avoid waiting later.

Use parchment paper: Line the baking tray with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Efficient egg wash: Use a pastry brush for quick and even application of the egg yolk wash.