Benne Wafers Recipe: Perfectly Crispy Every Time

Introduction

Benne wafers are a delightful and traditional Southern treat. Crispy and nutty, these thin cookies are a beloved accent to any dessert table, offering a satisfying crunch and a hint of sweetness. The delicate blend of flavors makes them a favorite for many occasions, from holiday gatherings to afternoon tea. Below, you’ll find a tried and true recipe for making these delectable benne wafers at home.

Ingredients

For this benne wafers recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup sesame seeds
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your own batch of benne wafers:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the sesame seeds, stirring constantly, until golden brown and fragrant. Allow them to cool.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
4. Add the melted butter and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients, then mix well. The resulting dough should be stiff.
5. Gently fold in the toasted sesame seeds until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Using a teaspoon, scoop small amounts of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving ample space between each for spreading.
7. Flatten each mound of dough with the back of the spoon or your fingertips to create thin, round wafers.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the wafers are golden brown.
9. Allow the benne wafers to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. They will crisp up as they cool.

FAQ

Here are some common questions about making benne wafers:

Q: Can I use black sesame seeds instead of white ones?

A: While black sesame seeds can be used, they will alter the appearance and flavor of the benne wafers.

Q: How should I store benne wafers?

A: Once completely cooled, store the benne wafers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.

Q: Can I freeze prepared benne wafers?

A: Yes, you can freeze benne wafers in an airtight container for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Q: What can I serve with benne wafers?

A: Benne wafers are versatile and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with ice cream, sorbet, or a cheese board.

Q: Are benne wafers gluten-free?

A: No, traditional benne wafers contain all-purpose flour and are not gluten-free. However, you can explore alternative recipes using gluten-free flour if needed.