Candied Orange Wafers

A Taste of Spain: My Candied Orange Wafers

Baking has always been my sanctuary, a place where I can escape the everyday chaos and find solace in the rhythmic mixing and the comforting aroma of warm dough. Today, I want to share a recipe that's taken me on a culinary journey, a recipe that whispers of sun-drenched Spanish villages and the rich history woven into its simple ingredients: Candied Orange Wafers.

These delicate cookies, shaped like the iconic terra-cotta roof tiles of Spain, are more than just a sweet treat; they're a taste of tradition, a nod to the Moorish influence on Catalan cuisine. The addition of candied orange peels brings a unique citrusy sweetness that perfectly complements the buttery crispness of the wafers. It’s a flavor combination that’s both familiar and exciting, a perfect balance of old and new.

The process of making these cookies is surprisingly simple, yet the result is remarkably elegant. The act of carefully shaping each wafer over a rolling pin, transforming a simple disc of dough into a miniature architectural masterpiece, is meditative and rewarding. It’s a reminder that even the simplest things can hold immense beauty and satisfaction.

The aroma filling my kitchen as they bake is intoxicating – a blend of sweet orange, warm butter, and a hint of vanilla. It’s a scent that evokes memories of sunny afternoons spent in charming cafes, sipping strong coffee and indulging in delectable pastries. And the taste? Oh, the taste! Each bite is a burst of delicate sweetness, a textural symphony of crispness and gentle chewiness. They are the perfect accompaniment to a cup of tea, a glass of wine, or simply enjoyed on their own as a moment of pure indulgence.

But more than just the recipe itself, these cookies represent something more profound to me. They are a symbol of connection, a bridge between cultures and generations. The Moorish influence, evident in the candied orange, speaks to the rich tapestry of Spanish history. And the act of baking itself, passing down recipes and traditions, connects me to my own heritage and the women who came before me.

I encourage you to try this recipe, not just for the delicious cookies, but for the journey it takes you on. Embrace the process, savor the moments, and appreciate the simple pleasure of creating something beautiful and delicious with your own hands. As you shape each wafer, let your mind wander to sun-drenched Spanish villages, and allow the aroma to transport you to a place of warmth, comfort, and culinary adventure. The result will be more than just cookies; it will be an experience, a memory, a taste of Spain right in your own kitchen.

Beyond the Recipe: The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its taste but also in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different citrus fruits, such as lemon or lime, or add a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added texture and flavor. The possibilities are endless! You can also adapt the shape of the cookies – let your creativity guide you! These cookies also make a fantastic gift; present them beautifully in a decorative tin or box, and they'll be treasured by anyone lucky enough to receive them.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and embark on a culinary adventure. The journey of making these Candied Orange Wafers is just as rewarding as the delicious result. Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• Preheat oven to 400°F.
• Beat together butter, sugar, zest, and vanilla with an electric mixer on high speed until light and fluffy.
• Reduce speed to low and beat in egg whites. (Mixture will look curdled.)
• Whisk in flour just until incorporated.
• Drop 4 rounded tablespoons of batter about 3 inches apart on a baking sheet lined with nonstick pad.
• Spread batter evenly into 4- to 5-inch circles with back of a spoon dipped in cold water.
• Bake cookies in middle of oven, turning sheet 180 degrees halfway through baking, until golden brown, about 10 minutes total.
• Cool cookies 30 seconds on baking sheet (to facilitate removal), then carefully remove cookies with a thin metal spatula and immediately drape over a rolling pin to create a curved shape.
• (If cookies become too brittle to drape over rolling pin, return to oven a few seconds to soften.)
• When cool, transfer cookies to an airtight container.
• Make more cookies in same manner, cooling and cleaning nonstick pad and baking sheet between batches.
• Handle these cookies carefully, as they are fragile. Cookies keep in an airtight container 5 days.