Ahh, the iconic NYC Black and White Cookie! Just the mention of these delightful treats brings back a flood of amazing memories for me. I remember strolling through the busy streets of Manhattan, the hustle and bustle buzzing around me, with a freshly baked Black and White Cookie in hand. There’s just something about biting into that fluffy, pillowy cake topped with half chocolate and half vanilla fondant that feels like a little slice of heaven!
These cookies aren’t just a dessert; they are a symbol of New York’s diverse culture and culinary landscape. They remind me of lazy Sunday afternoons spent at a corner café, savoring every crumb while people-watching. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of coffee or on their own while reminiscing, they always bring a sense of comfort and joy. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious recipe which will surely transport you straight to the vibrant streets of NYC!
What’s in NYC Black and White Cookies?
All-Purpose Flour: This is the foundation of our cookie, giving it that essential structure. It provides a perfect balance to create a soft and delightful texture. I recommend using a high-quality all-purpose flour for the best results.
Baking Powder: A little lift is what we need here! Baking powder helps in making our cookies fluffy. Make sure to check the expiration date, as fresh baking powder does wonders!
Unsalted Butter: Butter is life! It adds rich flavor and moisture to the cookies. I prefer using unsalted so I can control the salt level in my recipe.
Granulated Sugar: This sweetens our cookies and contributes to that lovely, tender texture.
Eggs: Another key player for moisture and richness! Eggs help bind everything together and create that soft crumb.
Milk: A splash of milk adds creaminess to the dough and helps achieve the right consistency.
Vanilla Extract: Because everything is better with a hint of vanilla. It adds a warm, sweet flavor that complements our cookies beautifully!
Powdered Sugar: This is what we need for that incredible, glossy fondant glaze on top. It adds sweetness without overpowering the cookies’ flavor.
Cocoa Powder: The chocolate side of our glaze features cocoa powder, giving that perfect rich flavor. Use a high-quality unsweetened cocoa for the best taste.
Is NYC Black and White Cookies Good for You?
Let’s be real here: these cookies are a treat! They contain some ingredients that aren’t the healthiest, but in moderation, they can fit into a balanced diet.
Butter: While it’s rich and indulgent, it does provide some essential fats needed for energy and flavor. Remember, it’s all about balance!
Granulated Sugar: Sure, we know it adds sweetness, but sugar can also provide a quick energy boost. Just be mindful not to overindulge to avoid that infamous sugar crash!
Milk: We have a dairy component here, so we’re getting some calcium, which is great for bone health!
So, while these cookies aren’t a health food, enjoying one every now and then won’t hurt, especially when you take the time to savor every bite!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up about 12 delightful NYC Black and White Cookies:
– 2 ⅔ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– ½ cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar (for glaze)
– ¼ cup cocoa powder (for chocolate glaze)
– Water (for the glaze consistency)
How to Make NYC Black and White Cookies?
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. This helps to incorporate air.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or a whisk – it’s up to you!
4. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in the milk and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Gradually stir the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Don’t overmix!
6. Drop spoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet about 2 inches apart. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon.
7. Bake for about 15–20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
8. For the glaze, mix together the powdered sugar with enough water to create a pourable consistency. Divide the mix in half and add cocoa powder to one portion for the chocolate glaze.
9. Once the cookies are cool, spread the vanilla glaze on one half of each cookie and the chocolate glaze on the other half. Let them sit until the glaze sets.
10. Enjoy your delicious NYC Black and White Cookies with a cozy drink or share them with friends!
Get Creative with Your Cookies!
Here’s where you can let your personality shine! You can add a little lemon or almond extract to the glaze for a fun twist. Want to make them even more decadent? Consider adding a layer of chocolate ganache on top of your fondant once it sets. Oh, and they also make fantastic gifts wrapped up in a cute box or served at parties!
I encourage you to give these NYC Black and White Cookies a try! Whether they become a regular in your baking rotation or a special treat, I know you’ll love them just as much as I do. Don’t forget to share your results and memories – I’d love to hear how they turned out for you! Happy baking!
