Hickory Macaroons. Mrs. W. H. Eckhart. Recipe
History of Hickory Macaroons and Fun Facts:
Hickory macaroons are a delightful treat that combines the richness and nuttiness of hickory nuts with the sweetness of brown sugar and the lightness of macaroons. This recipe has been passed down through generations and has its origins in early American culinary traditions.
The use of hickory nuts in cooking dates back to Native American tribes who used them as a staple ingredient in their recipes. These nuts were highly valued for their nutritional benefits and unique flavor. In fact, hickory nuts contain healthy fats, protein, and various vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any recipe.
Macaroons, on the other hand, have a French origin and are a type of sweet cookie traditionally made with ground almonds or coconuts. The word "macaroon" comes from the Italian word "maccarone," meaning paste. While the traditional macaroon recipe does not include hickory nuts, the addition of these flavorful nuts gives a delicious twist to this classic dessert.
Now, let's dive into the recipe for Mrs. W. H. Eckhart's Hickory Macaroons:
Ingredients:
- 2 eggs
- 2 coffee cups of brown sugar
- 2 cups of flour
- 2 tablespoons of water
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- 2 cups of hickory nut meats
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs until they are well combined and slightly frothy.
3. Gradually add in the brown sugar while continuing to beat the mixture until it becomes thick and creamy.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the egg and sugar mixture, alternating with the water. Mix well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter.
5. Gently fold in the hickory nut meats, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Drop rounded spoonfuls of the batter onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. If desired, you can lightly flatten each cookie with the back of the spoon.
7. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12-15 minutes or until the macaroons are golden brown around the edges.
8. Once done, remove the macaroons from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack before serving.
These hickory macaroons are a delightful balance of sweetness and nuttiness. The brown sugar adds a caramel-like flavor while the hickory nuts provide a rich, earthy taste. The texture is chewy and slightly crispy on the outside, making each bite a delicious treat.
Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoyed making and indulging in Mrs. W. H. Eckhart's Hickory Macaroons, you might also want to explore other nut-based recipes. Here are a few delicious options you can try:
1. Pecan Macaroons: Replace the hickory nuts with pecans for a slightly sweeter and buttery taste.
2. Almond Macaroons: Use ground almonds instead of hickory nuts for a classic take on macaroons.
3. Walnut Macaroons: Experiment with walnuts to add a distinct flavor and crunch to your macaroons.
4. Pistachio Macaroons: For a vibrant green color and a delicate pistachio flavor, substitute hickory nuts with ground pistachios.
Remember, the possibilities are endless when it comes to macaroons. You can mix and match different nuts to create your own unique combination of flavors. So go ahead and let your creativity soar in the kitchen, while savoring the delectable world of macaroons!
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