Quick Cookies

Although probably not the best looking cookies I have ever baked (I still have to work on improving this recipe), these cookies are pretty quick to bake. They are perfect as a nibble with a cup of hot tea.



Ingredients:
125 butter, chopped
1/2 cup caster sugar
1 egg
1 tsp vanilla essence
2 cups self-raising flour, sifted
glace cherries or nuts for garnish (optional)

Method:
1. Cream butter and sugar together in a bowl until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla.
2. Gradually fold in flour until a stiff dough is formed.
3. Roll small pieces into walnut-sized balls. Arrange on lightly-greased or baking paper-lined baking trays. Press each cookies lightly with a floured fork. Top with a cherry or nut.
4. Bake in a moderate oven (180C) for 10-12 minutes or until golden. Allow cookies to cool on trays for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variation 1: Add 1/2 cup choc bits or dried fruit (dates, sultanas, raisins) to the flour, then continue as directed.
Variation 2: Use brown sugar in place of caster sugar for a more caramel-tasting biscuits.
Variation 3: Add 1 teaspoon of mixed spice and 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans with the flour.
Variation 4: Add 1/2 cup chopped crystallised ginger or glace cherries with the flour.

Makes about 24 - 34.