Delicious Vanilla Wafers (as Mary Made Them) Recipe

Recipe for Delicious Vanilla Wafers (as Mary Made Them)

History:
Vanilla wafers have been popular treats for centuries. The modern version we know today originated in Europe during the 19th century. It was the English who first introduced these delicious, crispy cookies to America. Over time, the recipe has been modified and personalized by countless bakers, each adding their own unique touch. This recipe, as prepared by Mary, is a classic take on vanilla wafers that will surely delight your taste buds.

Fun Facts:
- Vanilla wafers are often associated with the South, particularly in the United States. They are frequently used in desserts like banana pudding, where they add a delightful crunch and flavor.
- In the early 20th century, vanilla wafers gained popularity as a convenient snack due to their long shelf life and portable nature. They became a staple in lunchboxes and were also served as a treat during tea time.
- The name "vanilla wafer" refers to the shape and size of the cookie, which is thin and usually round. Traditionally, these cookies have a subtle vanilla flavor that pairs well with other desserts and can also be enjoyed on their own.

Now, let's dive into Mary's recipe for Delicious Vanilla Wafers:

Ingredients:
- 1/4 pound (1 stick) of butter, softened
- 1/4 pound of all-purpose flour
- 1/4 pound of sugar
- 2 eggs
- Essence of vanilla (about 1 teaspoon)

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to a hot temperature. Aim for around 400°F (200°C) to ensure the wafers bake quickly and achieve a nice golden brown color.

2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done using an electric mixer or by hand with a wooden spoon.

3. Separate the yolks from the eggs and add the yolks to the creamed butter and sugar mixture. Beat well to incorporate the yolks.

4. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they become stiff peaks. Then, gently fold the beaten egg whites into the butter, sugar, and yolk mixture.

5. Gradually add the flour to the mixture, alternating with a few drops of vanilla essence each time. Continue to fold the ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Prepare a cold iron pan or baking sheet by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper. Using a spoon, drop dollops of the batter onto the pan, making sure to leave enough space between each wafer as they will spread during baking.

7. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 8-10 minutes, or until the outer edges of the wafers have browned. Keep a close eye on them as they can quickly over-brown or burn. The wafers should be crispy and slightly golden all over.

8. Once baked, remove the wafers from the oven and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack. They will continue to firm up as they cool.

Serve and enjoy these Delicious Vanilla Wafers as a standalone treat or use them in your favorite dessert recipes!

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you're a fan of vanilla wafers, you might also enjoy trying out these other delightful recipes:
- Banana Pudding: Layer vanilla wafers with sliced bananas and a creamy filling made from vanilla pudding and whipped cream. Top it off with a sprinkle of crushed wafers for an extra crunch!
- Icebox Cake: Alternate layers of vanilla wafers with whipped cream or a flavored mousse, and refrigerate overnight. The result will be a delicious, no-bake cake that is perfect for hot summer days.
- Strawberry Delight: Create a simple yet scrumptious dessert by layering sliced strawberries, whipped cream, and crushed vanilla wafers. Repeat the layers for a refreshing and indulgent treat.

Enjoy exploring the world of vanilla wafer-inspired desserts!