Have you ever heard of Forgotten Cookies? These delightful treats are a unique twist on traditional cookies, combining the lightness of meringue with the rich flavor of chocolate. The best part? They require minimal effort and can be made with ingredients you likely already have at home. In this post, we will explore how to make these airy, melt-in-your-mouth cookies that are perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into the world of Forgotten Cookies and discover why they deserve a spot in your recipe collection!

Ingredients List

To create these delicious Forgotten Cookies, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 large egg whites: The base for the meringue.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cookies and helps create a chewy texture.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth of flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
• 1 cup chocolate chips: The star ingredient that adds richness.
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional): Walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

Substitution Suggestions:

• Aquafaba: For a vegan version, substitute egg whites with 1/4 cup of aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas).
• Dairy-free chocolate chips: Use these to make the recipe completely dairy-free.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring even baking throughout your cookies.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 3: Whip the Egg Whites

In a clean, dry mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Gradually Add Sugar

Slowly add the granulated sugar, one tablespoon at a time, while continuing to beat the egg whites. Increase the speed to high and beat until the mixture is glossy and stiff peaks form. This process is essential for creating the light texture of the cookies.

Step 5: Add Vanilla and Salt

Gently fold in the vanilla extract and salt using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the meringue.

Step 6: Fold in Chocolate Chips and Nuts

Gently fold in the chocolate chips and chopped nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the meringue mixture.

Step 7: Drop the Dough

Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of the meringue mixture onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.

Step 8: Bake

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes. Do not open the oven door during baking, as this can cause the cookies to collapse.

Step 9: Turn Off the Oven

After 45 minutes, turn off the oven and leave the cookies inside for an additional 30 minutes to cool completely. This helps them dry out and achieve the perfect texture.

Step 10: Cool and Serve

Once cooled, carefully remove the cookies from the parchment paper and enjoy your delightful Forgotten Cookies!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per cookie (based on 24 servings):

• Calories: 90
• Total Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 0mg (if using aquafaba)
• Sodium: 30mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 12g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 1g

Data Insights:

These cookies are light and low in calories compared to traditional cookies, making them a great option for a sweet treat without the guilt.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make Forgotten Cookies a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

• Reduce Sugar: Cut the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup for a less sweet cookie.
• Use Dark Chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor and added antioxidants.
• Add Cocoa Powder: For a chocolate version, substitute 2 tablespoons of flour with cocoa powder.

Serving Suggestions

These Forgotten Cookies can be served in various delightful ways:

• With Coffee or Tea: Pair them with your favorite beverage for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Dessert Platter: Arrange them on a platter with other cookies for a stunning dessert display.
• Ice Cream Topping: Crumble them over ice cream for a delightful crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Forgotten Cookies, here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Not Beating Egg Whites Enough: Ensure you whip the egg whites to stiff peaks for the best texture.
• Opening the Oven Door: Avoid opening the oven door while baking, as this can cause the cookies to collapse.
• Overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time; the cookies should be dry but not browned.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Forgotten Cookies fresh:

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
• Preventing Sticking: Place parchment paper between layers if stacking cookies in a container.

Conclusion

In summary, Forgotten Cookies are a light and delightful treat that combines the airy texture of meringue with rich chocolate flavors. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. We encourage you to try these cookies and share your feedback in the comments section. Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes and updates!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use egg substitutes?

A1: Yes, you can use aquafaba as a substitute for egg whites for a vegan version.

Q2: How do I know when the cookies are done?

A2: The cookies should be dry to the touch and have a slight sheen. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Q3: Can I add other flavors to the cookies?

A3: Absolutely! Feel free to add almond extract or citrus zest for a unique twist.