If you’re someone who loves a delicious, nutty snack, then groundnut cookies will quickly become your go-to treat. Packed with the rich, crunchy goodness of groundnuts (peanuts), these cookies are simple to make, yet incredibly irresistible. Whether you’re baking them for a special occasion, a cozy afternoon snack, or just because you need something sweet, these cookies never disappoint.
In this guide, we’ll not only walk you through how to make groundnut cookies, but we’ll also share tips, tricks, and variations to help you perfect your recipe. And don’t worry—we’ll make sure everything is easy to follow, even if you’re new to baking! You’ll learn how to use ingredients like butter, flour, salt, and baking powder for the perfect texture, and discover how a dash of vanilla or vanilla extract can elevate the flavor.
We’ll also explain how to properly roast your groundnuts for maximum crunch and the importance of using the right sheet when baking. Whether you’re mixing by hand or using a mixer, we’ve got you covered every step of the way.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy to make these cookies—just basic pantry staples like groundnuts, peanut, butter, and flour. It’s a recipe that’s easy to follow and doesn’t require special trips to the store. A pinch of salt and a bit of baking powder can help bring all the flavors together beautifully.
- Nutty Flavor: The rich, earthy taste of groundnuts shines through in every bite, giving these cookies a delightful and satisfying flavor. A touch of vanilla or vanilla extract can also enhance the nutty notes for an even deeper flavor.
- Perfect Texture: These cookies are the ideal balance between soft and crunchy. Each bite gives you a satisfying crunch, while the inside remains tender and melt-in-your-mouth. For extra crispiness, try to lightly roast the groundnuts before mixing.
- Customizable: Want to add a twist? You can easily experiment with variations like chocolate chips, oats, or coconut. The recipe is versatile enough to suit any preference, and works great whether you’re mixing by hand or using a mixer.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a baking time of 10–12 minutes, you’ll have fresh cookies in no time! Just line your baking sheet properly and you’re good to go.
- Healthier Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats from the groundnuts, these cookies offer a more nutritious alternative to store-bought snacks. And since you control the ingredients, you can adjust the butter, flour, or salt levels to suit your dietary needs.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering, afternoon tea, or a quick snack, these cookies are perfect for any occasion. Plus, they make a thoughtful homemade gift!
Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 12-15 cookies
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Dietary Information: Gluten-free, dairy-free (with substitutions)
Ingredients for Groundnut Cookies
Before you start baking, let’s gather all the ingredients you’ll need. Thankfully, making groundnut cookies doesn’t require any fancy ingredients—just a few staples you likely already have in your kitchen!
For the Cookies:
- 1 cup groundnuts (peanuts), roasted and skin removed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (you can substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (or dairy-free butter for a dairy-free version)
- 1/2 cup sugar (use brown sugar or coconut sugar for a healthier version)
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 egg (or flax egg for vegan version)
- 2 tablespoons milk (or non-dairy milk for vegan version)
Equipment Needed:
- Baking tray
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Hand mixer or whisk
- Spoon or cookie scoop
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Groundnut Cookies
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your baking tray with parchment paper, which will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
If your peanuts aren’t already roasted, you can roast them by placing them in a hot oven for about 10 minutes. Let them cool before removing the skins, then chop them coarsely or pulse them in a food processor to get the right texture for your cookies.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. You can use an electric mixer for this step, or just use a hand whisk. Whisk until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Add in the egg and vanilla extract, and continue mixing until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder, and groundnuts. Stir until evenly mixed. This ensures that the groundnuts and dry ingredients are properly distributed throughout the dough.
Step 4: Bring It All Together
Now, gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Don’t overmix, as this could make the cookies tough. If the dough feels too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk to help bind everything together.
Step 5: Shape the Cookies
Scoop out small portions of dough using a spoon or cookie scoop and roll them into balls. Place them on your prepared baking tray, ensuring there’s enough space between each cookie (about 2 inches apart). Gently flatten each cookie with a fork or your fingers, giving them a slightly domed shape.
Step 6: Bake
Bake the cookies in your preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking, as oven temperatures may vary.
Once baked, let the cookies sit on the tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Now comes the best part: enjoying your fresh, nutty groundnut cookies! These cookies pair wonderfully with a hot cup of tea or coffee, or you can savor them on their own.
Tips for Perfect Groundnut Cookies
- Roast Your Groundnuts Well: Roasting enhances the natural flavor of the peanuts, giving your cookies that extra rich, nutty taste. Just make sure you don’t burn them! A light roast brings out the best aroma and depth.
- Use Room Temperature Butter: For the best texture, ensure your butter is soft (but not melted) before mixing it with the sugar. This makes the creaming process easier and results in a fluffier dough. Using a mixer can also help achieve a smooth, airy consistency.
- Don’t Overmix the Dough: Overmixing can lead to dense cookies. Mix just until everything is combined, especially after adding your dry ingredients like flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Experiment with Sweeteners: If you want a healthier option, swap the white sugar with coconut sugar, or reduce the sugar amount to your preference. You can also add a splash of vanilla or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.
- Make It Vegan: You can easily make this recipe vegan by using a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) and dairy-free butter.
- Chill the Dough: If you have time, chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking will help the cookies maintain their shape during baking. Don’t forget to line your baking sheet properly for even baking and easy cleanup.
Variations You Can Try
While groundnut cookies are amazing just as they are, you can make them even more exciting by adding different flavors or ingredients. Here are some ideas to take your cookies to the next level:
- Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the dough for a sweet, decadent touch. They pair wonderfully with the nutty peanut base and a hint of vanilla.
- Oats: Mix in a cup of oats to create chewy, hearty cookies with extra texture. Combine with flour, a pinch of salt, and a bit of baking powder for the perfect balance.
- Cinnamon: For a warm, spicy flavor, try adding 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dough. A splash of vanilla extract can complement the spice beautifully.
- Coconut: Shredded coconut can give your cookies a tropical twist and extra chewiness. It blends well with butter and roasted peanuts in the dough.
- Chopped Nuts: Add a variety of chopped nuts, like almonds, walnuts, or cashews, for a nutty flavor explosion. Be sure to roast them lightly for enhanced flavor before folding them in with a mixer. Bake everything on a lined sheet for even results.
The Health Benefits of Groundnut Cookies
While groundnut cookies are certainly a treat, they also have some nutritional benefits that you might not expect from a typical cookie. Peanuts are packed with protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients, making these cookies a satisfying snack.
When paired with simple ingredients like flour, butter, a pinch of salt, and a touch of vanilla extract, this recipe becomes both delicious and wholesome. Lightly roast the peanuts to enhance their flavor and aroma before mixing them into the dough with a mixer. Baked on a lined sheet, these cookies offer a tasty way to enjoy a nutrient-rich dessert.
- Protein: Groundnuts are a good source of plant-based protein, which can help keep you feeling full longer and provide sustained energy. When used in a cookie recipe with ingredients like flour, butter, and a pinch of salt, they create a snack that’s both hearty and satisfying.
- Healthy Fats: The fats found in peanuts are primarily heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which support overall cardiovascular health. Lightly roast them before adding to your dough for an even richer flavor, especially when mixed with vanilla and baked on a lined sheet.
- Rich in Nutrients: Peanuts are rich in vitamins like niacin, vitamin E, and folate, which contribute to good health. Combining them with wholesome ingredients like baking powder and a splash of vanilla extract, and blending everything with a mixer, makes for a nutrient-packed treat that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Of course, like any baked treat, moderation is key. But when you’re craving a sweet snack, these cookies are a much healthier option than many store-bought varieties!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to a month. Just roll the dough into balls, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a bag or container, and bake directly from the freezer whenever you’re ready.
2. How do I store groundnut cookies?
Once your cookies are completely cool, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cookies for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use other nuts instead of groundnuts?
Yes! If you prefer almonds, cashews, or even walnuts, you can substitute them in place of groundnuts. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change slightly based on the nut you use.
Enjoy Your Homemade Groundnut Cookies!
Now that you have everything you need to make delicious groundnut cookies, it’s time to get baking! These cookies are simple to prepare with everyday ingredients like flour, butter, salt, and baking powder, full of flavor from the peanuts, and a treat that anyone can enjoy.
A splash of vanilla or vanilla extract can enhance the taste, especially when the groundnuts are lightly roasted beforehand. Mix everything together with a mixer for smooth, even dough, and bake them on a lined sheet for perfect results.
Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or just because, this recipe for groundnut cookies is sure to become a family favorite.
Remember, baking is all about having fun and experimenting. Don’t be afraid to tweak the recipe and make it your own. Happy baking, and enjoy your irresistible groundnut cookies!
