Table of contents
Introduction
The Ammonia Cookies Recipe is an old-fashioned classic, and these are simply fantastic, timeless treats that generations have enjoyed due to their light, crispy crunch and the fact that they use baker’s ammonia as the leavening agent. Credit…Alex Lau for The New York Times These old-fashioned cookies have a texture that hardens with time that contemporary baking powders can’t match, which has helped make them a favorite among traditionalist bakers.
If you want to try out something different from the usual cookies… here is a compelling recipe for Ammonia Cookies. Nothing like a couple of candied ginger honey cookies for candy canes to celebrate the day or to snack on as an anytime treat, especially with a cup of tea or coffee.
What Is the Ammonia Cookies Recipe?
Ammonia Cookies Recipe are an antique treasure of a baking recipe that is leavened with baker’s ammonia (ammonium carbonate), not baking powder or soda. A recipe rich in old-world European and American heritage, producing ultra-light crisp cookies. Although the name, for some, might conjure up visions of a pungent cloud of ammonia wafting through the kitchen, when baked, the ammonia leaves no odour, only a crispy texture. Well, these cookies are perfect for afternoon tea, the holidays or when you just desire a special crumble. Can these cookies be frozen?
Keys for Perfecting Ammonia Cookies Recipe
- Note: Use fresh baker’s ammonia; it is key to the proper rise and texture.
- You can also chill the dough before rolling: It becomes easier to handle and shape.
- Those crosshatches are the result; do roll the dough thin for the signature crisp.
- Don’t overbake — the cookies should be barely golden, not browned.
- Cool the cookies completely – the texture will have more time to set.
Learning these easy tips guarantees your Ammonia Cookies Recipe will turn out bakery-perfect every time.
Why Homemade Is a Great Idea
Ammonia Cookies Recipe give you the power over ingredient quality + preservative-free + keep that family tradition alive. Making them from scratch also gives you the ability to adjust the level of sweetness, spice, or even shape if you’re into that kind of thing to your liking. There is something so satisfying about reproducing classic dishes with your own hands, especially those as nostalgic as this.
Health Benefits of Ammonia Cookies
| Nutrient | Amount | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~60 kcal | Low in calories per cookie |
| Carbohydrates | 8-10g | Quick energy source |
| Fats | 2-3g | Adds satiety |
| Sugar | ~4g | Provides sweetness in moderation |
| No preservatives | ✔️ | Cleaner eating from homemade preparation |
While these cookies are a treat, moderate consumption alongside a balanced diet can still support a healthy lifestyle.
Ammonia Cookies Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Electric mixer (optional)
- Baking sheets
- Parchment paper
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baker’s ammonia ammonium carbonate
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, dissolve baker’s ammonia in milk. Let rest while preparing other ingredients.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs, one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
- Mix in the milk and ammonia mixture.
- Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft dough forms.
- Drop dough by rounded teaspoons onto prepared baking sheets.
- Bake for 10–12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
- Let cool on wire racks. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
- Nutrition (per serving, est.)
- Nutrient Amount
- Calories 220 kcal
- Total Fat 8g
- Saturated Fat 5g
- Carbohydrates 32g
- Sugar 18g
- Protein 3g
Notes
Tips and Tricks for the Best Results
- Whisk or sift in the flour for a light texture.
- Don’t overwork the dough , or it may become tough.
- Lay parchment paper for even heating and less mess.
- This way, you can have more control over your baked items if it’s possible to do them in smaller batches.
- Cool on racks, not pans, to maintain crispness.
These little secrets take your Ammonia cookie recipe from good to unforgettable.
Ammonia Cookies Recipe Variations
- Vanilla Almond: Add almond extract and chopped almonds.
- Lemon Zest: Incorporate lemon zest for a citrusy aroma.
- Holiday Spice: Add cinnamon and nutmeg for a festive feel.
- Chocolate-Dipped: Dip cooled cookies in dark chocolate for indulgence.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free baking blend.
Experimenting with these tweaks keeps the Ammonia Cookies Recipe exciting and adaptable to every occasion.
Conclusion
Ammonia Cookies Recipe A classic treat with a crispy, airy bite and full of that old-fashioned appeal. Whether you’re making these for a whole family or you just want to get to know a traditional recipe a little better, these cookies will quickly become a favorite. With minimal ingredients and some pro pointers, the vintage classic is anyone’s game.
FAQs About Ammonia Cookies Recipe
1. What is baker’s ammonia and is it safe to use in cookies?
Yes, you can bake with baker’s ammonia (ammonium carbonate).>” It predates baking powder and gives cookies a characteristically crisp texture. The ammonia evaporates completely while baking, and no taste or smell is remaining.
2. Can I substitute baking powder for baker’s ammonia?
You can use baking powder, but the texture will not be quite the same. (Using baker’s ammonia gives a cookie that is exceedingly light and crisp, especially in very thin doughs, that baking powder alone cannot match.)
3. Why do my ammonia cookies smell while baking?
That’s normal. The ammonia smell is only evident during baking and doesn’t subsequently linger in the end product. And remember to cook in a well-ventilated space.
4. How should I store ammonia cookies?
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They also stay crispy longer than your average cookie, thanks to their special leavening agent.
Share Your Twist!
Do you do your variation of these Ammonia Cookies? Perhaps you’ve brightened them with some lemon zest, perked them up with some cinnamon, or dunked them in chocolate? We’d love to hear about it! By sharing your twist, you’re not only inspiring others in the baking community, but you’re passing down inspiration that will help this traditional recipe stay alive and continue to evolve.
