Forget complicated recipes and endless ingredient lists! These 3-ingredient Greek yogurt cookies are the ultimate baking hack for busy individuals and novice bakers alike. Incredibly simple to make, these cookies deliver surprisingly delicious results, boasting a delightful chewy texture and subtly sweet flavor. Perfect for a quick afternoon snack, a last-minute dessert, or even a fun baking activity with kids, these cookies are guaranteed to become a new family favorite.
What Makes These Cookies So Special?
The magic lies in the simplicity. Using just three core ingredients – Greek yogurt, flour, and sugar – we create a cookie that's both healthy and satisfying. The Greek yogurt provides moisture and richness, resulting in a delightfully chewy texture that's far superior to many traditional cookie recipes. This recipe is also naturally gluten-free adaptable (see variations below).
The 3 Magic Ingredients:
- Plain Greek Yogurt: The star of the show! Full-fat Greek yogurt is recommended for the best texture and flavor. The higher fat content contributes to a richer, chewier cookie.
- All-Purpose Flour (or Gluten-Free Blend): Provides the structure for the cookies. See variations for gluten-free adaptations.
- Sugar (Granulated or Brown): Sweetens the cookies. Brown sugar will add a touch of molasses flavor and a softer texture.
Step-by-Step Recipe:
Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10-12 minutes
Yields: Approximately 12 cookies
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt (full-fat recommended)
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar)
Instructions:
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, flour, and sugar. Mix until a dough forms. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Shape the Cookies: Roll the dough into 1-inch balls. Place them onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie. Slightly flatten each ball with a fork for a classic cookie look.
- Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
- Cool & Enjoy: Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Variations & Add-ins:
While the simplicity of the 3-ingredient base is appealing, feel free to experiment with add-ins to customize your cookies:
- Chocolate Chips: Fold in ½ cup of your favorite chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Nuts: Chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds add texture and flavor.
- Spices: A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg brings warmth and spice.
- Extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend. You might need to slightly adjust the amount of flour depending on the brand. Start with 1 cup and add more as needed to achieve the right dough consistency.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing will result in tough cookies.
- Chill the dough (optional): For thicker cookies, chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before baking.
- Adjust baking time: Oven temperatures vary, so keep an eye on your cookies and adjust the baking time as needed.
These 3-ingredient Greek yogurt cookies are a testament to the fact that delicious doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy the ease and the surprisingly delightful taste!
