Benne Wafers
Benne wafers are a beloved Southern treat with a rich history and a distinctive flavor. These thin, crispy cookies are made with toasted sesame seeds, giving them a unique nutty taste that sets them apart from traditional wafers and biscuits. Benne wafers have been a staple in Southern cuisine for generations, with their roots tracing back to the Gullah Geechee culture of the Southeastern United States.
Prep Time:
15 mins
Cook Time:
25 mins
Total Time:
40 mins
Servings:
72
Yield:
6 dozen
Ingredients
Directions
Step 1
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
Step 2
Place sesame seeds on an ungreased baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until light brown. Watch closely so that they don't burn.
Step 3
Mix together brown sugar, flour, toasted sesame seeds, melted butter, egg, vanilla, salt, and baking powder in a large bowl until combined.
Step 4
Drop dough by 1/2 teaspoonfuls, 1 1/2 inches apart, onto a lightly greased baking sheet.
Step 5
Bake in batches in the preheated oven for 4 to 6 minutes, until light brown. Let cookies cool briefly before removing from baking sheets to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 6
Repeat Steps 4 and 5 to bake remaining batches.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
53
Calories
3g
Fat
6g
Carbs
1g
Protein
Complement
The word "benne" is derived from the Bantu word for sesame, reflecting the African influence on the dish. Sesame seeds were brought to the American South by enslaved Africans, and their culinary traditions have had a lasting impact on the region's cuisine. Benne wafers are often enjoyed as a snack or dessert, and their distinctive flavor and crisp texture make them a popular treat for all occasions. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of tea or coffee, benne wafers are a beloved symbol of Southern heritage and culinary tradition.
