Ep 9. Forgotten Cookies
- November 10, 2012
Forgotten Cookies is the ninth episode of the fifth season of Cook's Country, a cooking show that explores different regional recipes in the United States. In this episode, the show's hosts and recipe testers focus on forgotten cookie recipes that have fallen out of fashion but are worth rediscovering.
The episode begins with an introduction to forgotten cookies and why they are worth revisiting. The hosts explain that these cookies are often simple, made with a few basic ingredients, but can be incredibly delicious. They also note that the recipes they will be testing are from various regions of the country, providing a diverse set of flavors and techniques.
The first recipe the hosts tackle is a molasses cookie from New England. They explain that molasses was a crucial ingredient in colonial times, and this cookie recipe is a nod to that history. The hosts note that the recipe is straightforward, but the challenge is in achieving the perfect texture. They test out different amounts of flour to achieve the ideal level of chewiness and eventually settle on a recipe that produces a soft, chewy molasses cookie.
Next, the hosts move on to a recipe for pfeffernusse, a spicy German cookie typically served around Christmas. They note that this cookie recipe has fallen out of favor but is worth revisiting. The hosts explain that the key to a good pfeffernusse is in achieving the right balance of spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and black pepper. After testing out several different spice combinations, they settle on a recipe that has just the right amount of heat and sweetness.
The third recipe the hosts tackle is for a classic sugar cookie from the Midwest. They note that while sugar cookies may seem simple, they can be difficult to get right, with many recipes producing cookies that are too hard or too crumbly. The hosts test several recipes, experimenting with the amount of flour and butter used to achieve a cookie that is soft and tender but holds its shape. They end up with a recipe that produces a perfect sugar cookie, which they then decorate with frosting and sprinkles.
The final recipe featured in the episode is for a chocolate drop cookie from the mid-Atlantic region. The hosts explain that this cookie was a staple during World War II, as it could be made with limited ingredients. They note that this cookie is often overlooked in modern times but is worth revisiting for its simplicity and deliciousness. They test out several recipes, experimenting with the amount of cocoa powder and sugar used to achieve a rich chocolate flavor without being too sweet. They settle on a recipe that produces a soft, cakey cookie that is perfect for chocolate lovers.
Throughout the episode, the hosts provide tips and tricks for achieving the best results with each recipe, including the importance of properly measuring ingredients, using the right type of flour, and baking at the right temperature. They also provide historical context for each recipe, explaining how it fits into the culinary traditions of different regions of the country.
Overall, Forgotten Cookies is a delightful episode of Cook's Country that showcases the deliciousness and simplicity of classic cookie recipes. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice, the tips and tricks provided by the hosts make it easy to achieve perfect results with each recipe. By the end of the episode, you'll be inspired to try your hand at baking these forgotten cookie recipes yourself.
