Description
These authentic Lowcountry Benne Wafers deliver a delicate, paper-thin crunch and a deep, nutty aroma from perfectly toasted sesame seeds. By balancing rich brown sugar with a hint of savory salt, these traditional Southern cookies maintain their signature snap and fresh flavor for days.
Ingredients
- 1 cup sesame seeds
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and toast sesame seeds on a baking sheet for 10 to 12 minutes until golden and fragrant.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Stir the melted butter into the dry ingredients, then mix in the egg and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Fold the warm, toasted sesame seeds into the batter to distribute them evenly.
- Drop the dough by 1/2 teaspoonfuls onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them 1 1/2 inches apart.
- Bake for 4 to 6 minutes until the edges are light golden brown.
- Cool on the baking sheet for 2 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to crisp up completely.
Notes
To ensure the thinnest, crispiest result, make sure your butter is completely melted but not boiling when added to the sugar. If the batter becomes too stiff as it sits, a quick stir will help loosen it before dropping the final batches onto the sheet.
- Prep Time: 25 mins
- Cook Time: 15 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern