Orange blossom Indian sugar cookies

These cookies are like simple pleasures in life. One bite, and you know you are going for the second one. So, here’s presenting orange blossom sugar cookies or nankhatais.

I loved the whole process of baking cookies, even as a child. And among all the different cookies the Indian sugar cookies (nankhatai) were my favorite. The sugar cookies I ate growing up had no flavor. The store bought ones occasionally had a little amount of jam on top. But the best thing about these cookies is their texture. They just crumble in your mouth. Very delicate and sweet.

I got introduced to orange blossom water when I came to the UAE. I loved it, and anyone who loves oranges will love it too. It’s exhilarating smell will in vigor your senses and take you to your fond memories of sunny afternoons. While a soft tuft of the sunshine falls on your back, the cookie jar is just the comfort you will seek.

So, time to bring them together into one creation. These cookies are so simple to make, you can get your kids involved while making these cookies. Mix them well with your hands.  It’s kind of therapeutic. They are done in just half and hour. The actual recipe belongs to my mom, and I simply added the twist. Give it a try..

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Orange Blossom Sugar Cookies

Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Makes: 4-5

Ingredients

Flour 150 g
Icing Sugar 70 g
Canola Oil 130 ml
Orange Blossom water 30 ml
Orange  1 (zested)

METHOD

1. In a big mixing bowl put everything together.
2. Using fingers work your way through to get a crumb-like structure which forms a ball when pressed together.
3. Make small balls and place them on a greased and lined baking tray and press very gently with one finger.
4. Bake for 12-15 mins at 180 degree Celsius.
5. The base should change color to light brown
6. Let them cool before putting in containers.