Black and White Cookies Recipe

When it comes to iconic treats, few can rival the charm of Black and White Cookies. These delightful cookies are not only a feast for the eyes with their half-chocolate, half-vanilla icing, but they also offer a perfect balance of flavors. With a soft and cakey texture, each bite is a delightful experience that brings a taste of New York bakery culture right into your kitchen. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just indulging in a sweet craving, this Black and White Cookies Recipe is your ticket to cookie bliss.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this Black and White Cookies Recipe lies in the combination of simple ingredients that come together to create a perfectly soft yet sturdy cookie base. By using a blend of baking powder and baking soda, along with the right amount of butter and sugar, you achieve a cookie that is both tender and flavorful. The addition of sour cream adds moisture without compromising the cookie’s structure, making them ideal for holding that luscious icing. The icing itself is a delightful mix of sweet and slightly bitter chocolate, offering the perfect contrast to the vanilla glaze.

Ingredient List

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (a bit more if needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 10 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1 cup white granulated sugar
• 1 large egg, at room temperature
• 2 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup full-fat sour cream, at room temperature
• 5 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 7 tablespoons whole milk, divided
• 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer – makes creaming butter and sugar a breeze.
• Baking sheet – for placing the cookies while they bake.
• Parchment paper – to prevent sticking.
• Sifter – for ensuring your powdered sugar and flour are lump-free.
• Offset spatula – perfect for spreading the icing.

Cooking Black and White Cookies Recipe: The Process

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your cookies bake evenly and achieve that perfect golden hue.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Add Egg and Vanilla

Add the large egg and 2 1/2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Beat until fully incorporated.

Step 6: Incorporate Sour Cream

Mix in the full-fat sour cream until the batter is smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to dense cookies.

Step 8: Scoop the Dough

Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.

Step 9: Bake the Cookies

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10: Prepare the Icing

While the cookies are cooling, prepare the icing. In a medium bowl, combine 5 1/2 cups of sifted powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of whole milk, light corn syrup, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

Step 11: Divide and Color the Icing

Divide the icing in half. In one half, mix in 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder until fully combined. You should have one bowl of vanilla icing and one bowl of chocolate icing.

Step 12: Frost the Cookies

Once the cookies have cooled completely, use an offset spatula to spread the vanilla icing on one half of each cookie, and the chocolate icing on the other half. Allow the icing to set for about 30 minutes before serving.

Variations for Dietary Needs

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and dairy-free sour cream.
• Reduced Sugar: Experiment with sugar substitutes for a lighter version.
• Chocolate Lovers: Add chocolate chips to the cookie dough for an extra chocolatey treat.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• If your cookies spread too much, try chilling the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
• For dry cookies, ensure you’re measuring your flour correctly – use the spoon-and-level method.
• If the icing is too runny, add a little more powdered sugar until you reach a spreadable consistency.
• In case the cookies are too dense, check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store your Black and White Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze the cookies without icing for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave for a few seconds, just until warm and soft. If they are frosted, enjoy them straight from the container!

Reader Questions

Can I use a different type of milk for the icing?

Absolutely! You can use almond milk, soy milk, or any other milk alternative. Just ensure it’s unsweetened to maintain the icing balance.

How do I know when the cookies are done baking?

Look for a slight golden edge and a firm center. The cookies will continue to firm up as they cool, so avoid overbaking.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before scooping and baking.

What’s the best way to store leftover cookies?

Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If you’ve iced them, store them separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking.

See You at the Table

This Black and White Cookies Recipe is not just a treat; it’s an experience that brings joy and satisfaction with every bite. Perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying during a quiet moment to yourself, these cookies are sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. So gather your ingredients, follow this simple guide, and get ready to indulge in the sweet, nostalgic flavors of this classic cookie!