Baking Great Cookies

Besides maybe homemade bread, is there anything that smells more divine when walking in the door than homemade cookies? There is something so warm and comforting about cookies in general.

For some, making cookies seems to come easy. For others, a few tips and tricks might come in handy in order to make the best cookies possible. If you enjoy making and eating cookies, these handy tips are just right for you. For the rest, plenty of cookie chains or even store bough cookies are available to curb your cookie cravings.

First things first: If the recipe calls specifically for butter, use it. While butter and margarine can be used interchangeably, if a recipe specifies one over the other, follow the directions. Butter and margarine give cookies their flavor. If a recipe calls for shortening, the cookie will have a crunchier texture. Butter substitutes are better to avoid as they can ruin the recipe. It will change the consistency of cookie dough and produce unfavorable results.

Another tip would be to preheat the oven a good 10 minutes before you begin baking. The only time you shouldn't do this is if your recipe states that you need to start with a cold oven. The reason for the preheated oven is to aid in the production of even baked, not hard as a rock cookies. Preheating will allow the dough to cook more evenly producing a better product.

Never over mix the dough! This is a rule for all types of cookies as it will make them hard and tough.

When placing cookies onto a baking sheet, be sure to leave enough room for expansion. Generally speaking, 2 inches between cookies is a good rule. Larger cookies may require more space however, so adjust accordingly.

Now that the cookies are ready for the oven, watch them carefully. It is a good idea to use the minimum baking time to begin with. You can always add time on to cookie backing but not take it away. Once baked, always cool cookies on a wire rack. If you leave your cookies on the pan, the steam from them will not evaporate properly and you will end up with soggy cookies. It is important to do this almost immediately after removing your pan from the oven. Cookies are done when there is a firm set and they are delicious golden brown in color.

Following these simple tips can result in great cookies. And everyone loves a great cookie!