Sometimes, the simplest recipes carry the most joy, and Newfoundland Smartie Cookies are a delightful example. These buttery cookies are studded with colorful Smarties candies, making them a cheerful treat for kids and adults alike. Hailing from the kitchens of Newfoundland, these cookies are a staple at bake sales, birthday parties, and cozy afternoons with tea.
The first time I baked these, I was struck by their charm. The candies didn’t just add pops of color—they also brought a sweet, slightly crunchy texture that paired perfectly with the soft, buttery dough. They disappeared from the cookie jar faster than I expected!
What I love most about these cookies is their versatility. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit. Let’s get baking and create a batch of Newfoundland Smartie Cookies that will bring smiles to everyone.
The Newfoundland Smartie Cookies are buttery, soft cookies packed with colorful Smarties candies. These cheerful treats are easy to bake and perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to everyday snacks.
An Exciting Story:
The first time I brought these Newfoundland Smartie Cookies to a family picnic, they were an instant hit. My husband loved their nostalgic charm, and the kids couldn’t get enough of the colorful candies. Now, they’re a staple in our baking rotation whenever we want something fun and delicious.
Why These Newfoundland Smartie Cookies?
- Cheerful and Colorful: The Smarties add a playful pop of color.
- Buttery and Soft: The perfect balance of chewy and crisp.
- Easy to Make: A no-fuss recipe that comes together quickly.
- Kid-Friendly: A favorite for kids to help bake (and eat!).
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for paries, snacks, or just because.
What You Need for Newfoundland Smartie Cookies
- For the Cookies:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 ½ cups Smarties candies
How to Make Newfoundland Smartie Cookies
- Prepare the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Add the Smarties:
- Gently fold in the Smarties candies, reserving a few to press onto the tops of the cookies for decoration.
- Shape the Cookies:
- Scoop tablespoon-sized portions of dough and roll them into balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Press a few reserved Smarties onto the top of each cookie.
- Bake:
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers are set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Newfoundland Smartie Cookies
- Chill the Dough: If your kitchen is warm, chill the dough for 20-30 minutes to prevent spreading.
- Don’t Overbake: Remove the cookies from the oven when the edges are just golden for a soft, chewy texture.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Use M&M’s: If you can’t find Smarties, M&M’s are a great alternative.
- Add Texture: Mix in chopped nuts or shredded coconut for a twist.
- Try Chocolate Chips: Replace half the Smarties with semi-sweet chocolate chips.
Make a Healthier Version:
- Use whole-wheat pastry flour for added fiber.
- Replace some sugar with a natural sweetener like coconut sugar.
- Opt for dark chocolate Smarties for a lower-sugar option.
Closing for Newfoundland Smartie Cookies:
And there you have it—Newfoundland Smartie Cookies that are as fun to make as they are to eat. Perfect for brightening up your day or sharing with loved ones, these cookies are sure to become a favorite in your home. Let us know how yours turn out, and don’t forget to explore more of our delightful baking recipes!
Frequently Asked Questions for Newfoundland Smartie Cookies
- Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. - Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! Freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving. - What if I can’t find Smarties?
Use M&M’s or another colorful candy-coated chocolate. - How do I prevent the cookies from spreading too much?
Ensure your butter is softened, not melted, and chill the dough if needed. - Can I make mini cookies?
Yes, use smaller portions of dough and reduce the baking time to 8-10 minutes. - What pairs well with these cookies?
Serve with a glass of cold milk, hot chocolate, or tea. - Can I use salted butter?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to ¼ tsp. - What’s a fun serving idea?
Arrange the cookies in a colorful platter for a party or as a gift box for friends. - How do I make them extra chewy?
Add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar for a softer texture. - What if my cookies are too hard?
Place them in an airtight container with a slice of bread to restore moisture. - Can I add a festive twist?
Use holiday-themed Smarties for a seasonal look!