Welcome to my blog! Today, I’m excited to share a unique and healthy twist on a classic treat: Bajra (Pearl Millet) Shortbread. Bajra, also known as pearl millet, is a nutritious grain rich in fiber, iron, and essential minerals. These shortbread cookies are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits, making them a perfect snack for any time of the day.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Bajra (pearl millet) flour
• 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (at room temperature)
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2-3 tbsp milk (as needed)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped nuts (optional, almonds or pistachios work great)

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare:

• Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
• Line a baking tray with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

2. Mixing the Dough:

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
• Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the bajra flour, whole wheat flour, and salt.

3. Combining Ingredients:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition.
• If the dough feels too crumbly, add milk one tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together. It should be soft but not sticky.
• Fold in the finely chopped nuts if using.

4. Shaping the Shortbread:

• Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Roll it out to about 1/4 inch thickness.
• Use a cookie cutter or a knife to cut the dough into your desired shapes.
• Place the shortbread cookies on the prepared baking tray, leaving a small space between each cookie.

5. Baking:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges start to turn golden brown.
• Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking tray for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Serving:

• Once cooled, your delightful Bajra (Pearl Millet) Shortbread cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to a week.

Tips and Variations:

• For a vegan version, substitute butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine.
• For a hint of spice, add a teaspoon of ground cardamom or cinnamon to the dough.
• Drizzle the cooled cookies with a bit of melted dark chocolate for an extra treat.

Bajra shortbread cookies are a great way to incorporate nutritious millets into your diet. They are perfect for tea time, as a healthy snack, or even as a homemade gift for friends and family. Give this recipe a try, and let me know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy baking!

I hope you enjoy making and savoring these wholesome and tasty Bajra (Pearl Millet) Shortbread cookies! If you try this recipe, share your pictures and feedback. I’d love to hear from you!