Benne Wafers

Inspired by The Flavor of the South cookbook

These wafers were amazing and incredibly addictive! The sesame seeds with this buttery dough just keeps you coming back for more. They make a nice accompaniment to a salad or soup. They can be served as crackers with cheese, or used with dips such as artichoke dip. Even better, cut them into rectangles and top with shaved ham … they’re wonderful! Trust me, you can’t go wrong with this recipe. Best part, it takes no time to put together. I cut them into squares by hand and also used a small cookie cutter. The original recipe calls for shortening, but I opted to use butter.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sesame seeds

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne

• 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons butter, at room temperature in pieces

• 3-4 tablespoons ice water

Yields: 4 dozen

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15-18 minutes

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Spread the sesame seeds on a baking sheet, and place in the oven for 12 minutes. You want the seeds to turn into a deep golden color, so keep an eye on the baking process. Remove from the oven and set aside.

3. Turn the oven temperature down to 325°F.

4. In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder and cayenne pepper.

5. Add the butter and mix until the blend resembles coarse meal.

6. Add water a tablespoon at a time and blend until the dough comes together.

7. Add the sesame seeds and knead thoroughly.

8. Place on a lightly floured surface and roll out to 1/8-inch thick. Cut with a round 1-inch cookie cutter or by hand.

9. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15-18 minutes.

10. Cool on a rack before serving.