Made these for a cooking tasting contest at my church, but they were out before the contest even began! Dang!

Name: Made these for a cooking tasting contest at my church, but they were out before the contest even began! Dang!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; Powdered sugar for dusting; Chocolate chips or nuts for mixing in

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

These delightful treats disappeared in a flash at our church's cooking tasting contest! Perfect for gatherings, you won't want to miss out on making them.

Created by

Paige Sullivan

Last updated on 2025-12-18T15:07:31.807Z

Made these for a cooking tasting contest at my church, but they were out before the contest even began! Dang!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly delicious and crowd-pleasing
Simple ingredients that you likely have at home
Quick to prepare, perfect for last-minute gatherings

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

These delightful treats are not only a hit at church gatherings but are also perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday party, a family reunion, or just a casual get-together, they are sure to impress your guests. Their simple yet delicious flavor profile makes them versatile enough to complement any menu. With a quick prep time, you can whip them up even on short notice!

Imagine walking into a room filled with friends and family, the aroma of freshly baked goodies wafting through the air. Serving these treats will elevate your hosting game and leave a lasting impression on your guests. They are the ideal balance of sweet and satisfying, making them a favorite for both kids and adults alike.

Customization Galore

One of the best parts about this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to get creative with the optional toppings. Adding chocolate chips or nuts not only enhances the texture but also allows you to tailor the treats to your personal preferences. You can even experiment with different extracts, like almond or coconut, to give them a unique twist.

For those who enjoy a little extra sweetness, consider drizzling melted chocolate on top or adding a dollop of frosting. The possibilities are endless, and each variation can lead to a new favorite! This adaptability makes these treats a staple in any baker's repertoire.

Storage Tips

If you manage to have any leftovers (which is unlikely!), storing these treats correctly will ensure they remain as delicious as when they were first baked. Allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for a week.

For longer storage, consider freezing them. Just place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw at room temperature or warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds. They will taste just as fresh and delightful!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt

Optional Toppings

Powdered sugar for dusting
Chocolate chips or nuts for mixing in

Combine these ingredients for a delightful treat!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

Add Toppings

If desired, fold in chocolate chips or nuts at this stage.

Bake

Drop spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.

Cool and Serve

Allow to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Dust with powdered sugar if desired before serving.

Enjoy your delicious treats!

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with this recipe, make sure your butter is at the right temperature. Softened butter should give slightly when pressed but should not be melted. This is crucial for achieving that light and fluffy texture when creaming with sugar. Also, don’t overmix your batter once the dry ingredients are added; mixing just until combined will prevent dense treats.

Using a cookie scoop can help you portion the batter evenly, ensuring consistent baking. Additionally, keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary. Start checking around the 12-minute mark to ensure the edges are lightly golden but the centers remain soft.

Serving Suggestions

These treats can be served as is, or you can elevate them with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent dessert option. Pair them with your favorite hot beverage, such as coffee or tea, to enhance the experience. They also make a lovely addition to a dessert table at any celebration.

Consider packaging some of these treats as gifts for friends or neighbors. A simple box or bag with a heartfelt note can turn them into a thoughtful surprise. Sharing these delicious creations is a wonderful way to spread joy and happiness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just bake them fresh when you’re ready.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use margarine or a vegan butter alternative for a dairy-free option.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze these treats?

Yes! You can freeze the baked treats for up to 3 months. Thaw and enjoy when you're ready.