Hello, parents! If you’re looking for a nutritious and tasty snack for your little one, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’re excited to share a recipe for Ragi (Finger Millet) Cookies that are perfect for babies aged 8 to 9 months. Ragi is a superfood packed with calcium, iron, and essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for growing babies. These cookies are not only healthy but also soft and easy for tiny hands to hold and chew. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1 cup ragi flour (finger millet flour)
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter or ghee (at room temperature)
• 1/4 cup jaggery powder or date syrup (adjust sweetness to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 2-3 tablespoons milk or water (as needed)
• A pinch of salt (optional, for babies over 1 year)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ragi flour, whole wheat flour, cardamom powder, and baking powder. Mix well.
2. Cream the Butter and Sweetener:
   • In another bowl, beat the unsalted butter or ghee with the jaggery powder or date syrup until smooth and creamy.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed butter mixture, mixing well to form a crumbly texture.
4. Add Liquid:
   • Slowly add milk or water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. The dough should be soft but not sticky.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

5. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
6. Shape the Dough:
   • Take small portions of the dough and roll them into small balls. Flatten each ball gently with your palm to form a cookie shape. Alternatively, you can use cookie cutters for fun shapes.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

7. Bake:
   • Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking tray, leaving a little space between each cookie.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are slightly golden. Keep a close watch to prevent over-baking.
8. Cool:
   • Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking tray for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The cookies will harden as they cool.

Step 4: Serve

9. Serve:
   • Once completely cooled, these ragi cookies are ready to be served to your little one. Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Tips and Tricks

• Sweetener: Adjust the amount of jaggery powder or date syrup based on your baby’s preference and dietary needs. Always consult with your pediatrician before introducing new ingredients.
• Texture: For younger babies, ensure the cookies are soft and easy to chew. You can add a little more liquid to make the dough softer.
• Add-ins: You can add finely chopped nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for older babies if they are ready for more textures and flavors.
• Allergies: Always introduce new ingredients one at a time and watch for any signs of allergies or intolerances.

Health Benefits of Ragi for Babies

• Calcium-Rich: Ragi is an excellent source of calcium, essential for developing strong bones and teeth.
• Iron Content: It is rich in iron, which is crucial for healthy blood and cognitive development.
• High Fiber: Ragi is high in dietary fiber, aiding digestion and preventing constipation.
• Essential Nutrients: It contains essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that support overall growth and development.

These Ragi Cookies are a perfect blend of taste and nutrition, making them an ideal snack for your little one. They are easy to make, wholesome, and sure to be loved by your baby.

Happy baking and enjoy these delightful Ragi Cookies with your precious bundle of joy!

We hope you and your baby love these Ragi Cookies! Share your experiences and any creative variations you try in the comments below. Don’t forget to tag us on social media with pictures of your baking adventures. Bon appétit!