Description
These delicate, lace-like Benne Wafers offer a sophisticated balance of toasted nuttiness and sweet caramel notes. Perfect for a light afternoon treat, these crispy Lowcountry treasures celebrate the simple beauty of sesame seeds and rich brown sugar in every snappy bite.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sesame seeds (benne)
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon real vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and spread sesame seeds in a single layer on an ungreased baking sheet.
- Toast the seeds for 10 to 12 minutes, watching closely, until they are golden brown and fragrant.
- In a large glass bowl, whisk together the melted butter and packed brown sugar until the mixture resembles smooth caramel.
- Add the egg and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture, beating gently until the batter is glossy and fully incorporated.
- Sift the flour, salt, and baking powder together, then fold them into the wet ingredients.
- Stir in the toasted sesame seeds until they are evenly distributed throughout the thin dough.
- Drop the dough by 1/2 teaspoonfuls onto lightly greased baking sheets or silicone mats, leaving at least 1 1/2 inches of space between them.
- Bake for 4 to 6 minutes until the edges turn a deep golden brown while the centers remain slightly translucent.
- Let the wafers rest on the baking sheet for one minute to firm up before transferring them to a wire rack to cool and harden completely.
Notes
To achieve the perfect lace-like texture, ensure your butter is melted but cooled slightly before mixing, and always use a light-colored baking sheet to prevent the high sugar content from scorching. If your seeds are particularly fresh and oily, you may notice extra spreading; simply space the dough further apart to allow each wafer its own golden territory.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Cookies
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American