The Best Benne Wafers

May 15, 2023May 15, 20230 14

The Best Benne Wafers - a crispy and nutty delight

by The Chefin Appetizer

Prep

15 min

Cook

10 min

Ready In

25 min

Level

Easy

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

120

Sugar

Fat

Benne Wafers are a classic Southern snack that originated in West Africa. They were introduced to the United States by slaves in the 17th century and have since become a popular treat in the South. Benne, which means sesame in West African, is a key ingredient in these wafers and gives them their unique nutty flavor. The wafers are thin and crispy and are usually served as a snack or dessert. They can also be used as a base for ice cream sandwiches or as a garnish for other desserts. The recipe is easy to follow, and the end result is a delicious and satisfying treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Instructions

1.	Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2.	In a large bowl, combine the toasted sesame seeds, melted butter, and brown sugar. Mix well.
3.	Add in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
4.	In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, salt, and baking powder.
5.	Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
6.	Drop the dough by tablespoonful onto a greased baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
7.	Using a spatula or the back of a spoon, flatten the dough balls to about 1/4 inch thick.
8.	Bake for 8-10 minutes until golden brown.
9.	Allow the wafers to cool on the baking sheet for 1-2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

PROS

These Benne Wafers are a crispy and nutty delight.
They are easy to make and require only a few ingredients.
They can be a perfect snack to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.

CONS

While Benne Wafers are delicious, they do contain a fair amount of sugar and butter, making them quite high in calories.
They should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Sesame seeds are rich in essential nutrients such as fiber, protein, and healthy fats. They are also loaded with antioxidants and have been shown to lower inflammation and cholesterol levels. Butter is a good source of vitamin A and contains healthy fatty acids that can support brain and heart health. Brown sugar is a better alternative to white sugar as it retains some of its natural molasses content. It has a lower glycemic index and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

	1 cup sesame seeds , toasted
	3/4 cup butter , melted
	1 1/2 cups packed brown sugar
	1 egg
	1 teaspoon vanilla extract
	1 cup all-purpose flour
	1/4 teaspoon salt
	1/4 teaspoon baking powder