Benne wafers are a delightful Southern treat that perfectly blend the nutty flavor of sesame seeds with a crispy, sweet cookie texture. Originating from West Africa and brought to America by enslaved Africans, these wafers have become a beloved staple in Southern cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or a special addition to a tea party, benne wafers are sure to impress. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe, brought to you by I WUV COOKING.

What Makes It Special

What sets benne wafers apart is their unique combination of flavors and textures. The toasted sesame seeds provide a rich, nutty taste, while the sugar and butter create a delightful crunch. These wafers are not only delicious but also carry a rich history, symbolizing good luck and prosperity in many cultures. Plus, they are incredibly easy to make, making them a perfect treat for both novice and experienced bakers alike!

Ingredients

To make approximately 24 benne wafers, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup toasted sesame seeds

Instructions

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

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Incorporate Sesame Seeds: Gently fold in the toasted sesame seeds, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Scoop the Dough: Using a teaspoon or small cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are set.
8. Cool: Remove from the oven and let the wafers cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Nutritional Information (per wafer)

• Calories: 80
• Total Fat: 4.5g
• Saturated Fat: 2.5g
• Cholesterol: 15mg
• Sodium: 50mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 9g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 1g

Helpful Cooking Tips

• Toasting Sesame Seeds: For the best flavor, toast your sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
• Storage: Store your benne wafers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
• Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor, or try drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled wafers for an extra treat!

Conclusion

Benne wafers are a delightful addition to any dessert table or snack time. Their unique flavor and crispy texture make them a favorite among many. We hope you enjoy making and sharing these delicious wafers with your friends and family! How did your benne wafers turn out? Let us know, and don’t forget to follow us for more delightful recipes!