Ragi cookies are the nutritious snack not only for adults but they are also beneficial especially for the growing babies. They are highly valued because they are rich in calcium, nutrients and fiber and iron. These are baked to the crisp texture which makes it easier for the babies to hold in the mouth and chew. These cookies are the best replacement to the processed snacks which ensure that the babies enjoys the snacks which are not only tasty but also a healthy option.

It’s rich in fiber, calcium,  iron and amino acids property offers a number of health benefits  like boosts hemoglobin levels, improve bone health, improves digestion, prevent   constipation and improve skin, nails and hair health.

What makes them special?

Ragi has been a part of traditional diet especially in the parts of India and Africa for centuries. Ragi cookies offers a way to enjoy the ancient diet in modern and convenient manner. Ragi is a already gluten free meal so it is a perfect choice for those who have gluten intolerance.

These ragi cookies is the best way to introduce finger millets in your baby’s diet in a fun and tasty way.

Ingredients:

Ragi Flour – 1cup

Wheat Flout – 1/4 cup

Jaggery – 1/4 Cup

Butter or Ghee – 1/4 cup

Cardamom Powder – 1/4 tsp

Baking Powder – 1/2 tsp

Milk or Water – 2-3 tsp

Instructions:

Dough Preparation:

• In a large mixing bowl add all the dry ingredients i.e. ragi flour, wheat flour and baking powder. You can add cardamom powder for a mild flavor
• In another bowl whisk together jaggery and ghee or butter until they combines well and gives smooth texture.
• When the both mixtures are ready mix them together and combine well until they give a soft dough.
• Add 1 or 2 teaspoon of milk or water as per the requirement.

Shape the cookies:

• Preheat the oven at 180 degree C or 350 degree F.
• With the use of parchment paper line up the baking tray.

• Now take the equal amount of dough and roll them into the balls. Then flatten them on the lined baking tray. You can try any of the shape for fun which you like.

Bake the cookies:

• Now its time to place the cookies in the preheated oven. Bake them for 10-12 minutes or until the edges become brown and crispy.
• Take them out and place on the cooling rack for around 20-25 minutes. Let them cool completely.
• Now your healthy, nutritious and tasty cookies are ready to serve.

Time required:

Preparation time – nearly 15 minutes

Baking time – about 12 minutes

Cooling time – approximately 15 minutes

Total time required –  around 42 minutes.

Tools required

Two mixing bowls: For dough preparation

Electric whisker: To cream together butter or ghee with jaggery

Spatula: To combine dry ingredients well.

Parchment paper: To line up baking tray and to separate the cookies to stick from each others  while storing them.

Baking tray: To place the cookies.

Oven: To bake the cookies.

Measuring cup and spoons: To accurately measure the ingredients. Which is a important thing to remember

Cooling rack: To cool down the cookies.

Cookie cutter (optional): If you desire to give different shape to your cookies. It comes in different shapes and different sizes.

Rolling pin (optional): If you want to roll out the dough.

How to store?

• Short- term storage: Place the cookies in an airtight container or jar and place them on room temperature, the cookies will stay fresh for around a week. Always separate the cookies using a parchment paper between the layers to prevent them from sticking to each other. Avoid from keeping them in the direct sunlight.
•  Medium – term storage: If you want to store them for more than a week place them in refrigerator after packing in airtight container or jar. It will prevent the crispiness and flavor of the cookies. They will be fresh and crispy for 2 weeks. This way cookies can be good for around a month but they will lose their crispiness.
•  Long – term storage: For a longer period of time, wrap them individually in a cling wrap or with plastic paper, seal them completely in a freezer-safe bag and place them in freezer. Thaw them at room temperature before eating or you can also pop them in the oven or microwave at low temperature for  few minutes. This way you can store them for more than a month

Notes to remember

• Make sure that your baby is not allergic to any of the ingredients.
• If you want to avoid jaggery, you can use mashed banana or apple puree.
• Use all the ingredients at room temperature for a better flavor.
• You can adjust the amount of cardamom powder as per your taste.
• You can give any shape to your cookies as per your preference.
• The measurements should be accurate to get the desired taste, flavor, texture and consistency of the dough and cookies.
• Always sift the dry ingredients before adding to the mixture. It prevents the lumps to form.
• You can add flavor of your choice in the cookies like cinnamon powder, cardamom powder, almond extract or vanilla essence.
• This cookies cook faster so always keep an eye on the baking timer.
• It is recommended to keep the dough in refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before using. Chill dough prevent the spreading of cookies while baking and allow them to firm up.
• This recipe is very friendly in terms of flavor. Feel free to bring some variations in flavor and garnishing to elevate its taste and appearance.