Sausainiai, the delightful Lithuanian cookies known for their buttery texture and sweet fillings, are a beloved treat across the Baltic region. These small, round cookies are perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply craving a homemade dessert. Making sausainiai at home allows you to customize flavors and fillings, creating a truly personalized treat that will impress friends and family alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To begin your sausainiai baking journey, gather the following ingredients:
- 250g butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- Pinch of salt
For the filling:
- Your favorite jam (such as strawberry or apricot)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Creaming the Butter and Sugar
Start by creaming together the softened butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air into the dough, resulting in a lighter texture for your sausainiai.
2. Adding Eggs and Vanilla Extract
Once the butter and sugar are creamed, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of your cookies.
3. Mixing the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cookies tough instead of tender.
4. Forming and Filling the Cookies
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. To form each sausainiai, take a small portion of dough and roll it into a ball about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
Using your thumb or the back of a small spoon, make an indentation in the center of each cookie. Fill each indentation with a small amount of your favorite jam. Traditionally, raspberry or apricot jam is used, but feel free to experiment with different flavors.
5. Baking and Serving
Bake the sausainiai in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once cooled, you can dust the sausainiai with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation. These cookies are best enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, and they also make wonderful gifts for friends and neighbors.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for the best texture.
- Jam Selection: Use high-quality jam for the filling to enhance the flavor of your sausainiai.
- Storage: Store sausainiai in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Conclusion
Making sausainiai at home is a rewarding experience that allows you to create delicious cookies with your preferred flavors and fillings. Whether you follow a traditional recipe or add your own twist, these treats are sure to delight everyone who tries them. Enjoy the process of baking and savoring these homemade delights with loved ones!
For more inspiration and recipes, visit our website at Bijola.lt. Happy baking!
Keyword: sausainiai
