Here’s a list of ingredients for **Half Moon Cookies**, optimized for SEO with relevant keywords:
- **Unsalted butter** (softened, for a rich and buttery cookie base)
- **Granulated sugar** (for sweetness and texture)
- **Eggs** (to bind the cookie dough)
- **Vanilla extract** (for a classic baked goods flavor)
- **All-purpose flour** (the base for the cookie dough)
- **Baking powder** (to help the cookies rise)
- **Salt** (to enhance the flavors)
- **Milk** (to create a soft and moist cookie texture)
- **Cocoa powder** (for the chocolate half of the cookie)
- **Powdered sugar** (for the iconic half moon cookie frosting)
- **Lemon juice** (optional, for a tangy flavor in the vanilla frosting)
- **Heavy cream or milk** (to adjust frosting consistency)
These ingredients are perfect for creating **classic half moon cookies**, a beloved **baked goods treat** that combines **chocolate and vanilla flavors** in one delicious dessert.
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Steps
# How to Make Half Moon Cookies: A Step-by-Step Guide
Half moon cookies, also known as black and white cookies, are a classic baked treat with a soft, cake-like base and a signature half-chocolate, half-vanilla icing. Perfect for dessert tables, holiday gatherings, or a sweet snack, these cookies are sure to impress. Follow this detailed guide to create your own half moon cookies at home.
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## **Ingredients for Half Moon Cookies**
**For the Cookies:**
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
**For the Icing:**
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
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## **Step-by-Step Instructions**
### **Step 1: Preheat and Prepare**
- Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
- Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone mats to prevent sticking.
### **Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients**
- In a medium bowl, whisk together **2 ½ cups flour**, **½ teaspoon baking powder**, **½ teaspoon baking soda**, and **¼ teaspoon salt**. Set aside.
### **Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar**
- In a large mixing bowl, cream **½ cup softened butter** and **1 cup granulated sugar** until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add **2 eggs** one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**.
### **Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients**
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with **½ cup buttermilk**. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
### **Step 5: Scoop and Shape Cookies**
- Use a cookie scoop or spoon to drop **2-3 tablespoon-sized portions** of dough onto the prepared baking sheets. Space them about 2 inches apart.
- Gently flatten each mound slightly with the back of a spoon to create a half-moon shape.
### **Step 6: Bake the Cookies**
- Bake in the preheated oven for **10-12 minutes**, or until the edges are lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
### **Step 7: Prepare the Icing**
- In a small bowl, whisk together **2 cups powdered sugar**, **2-3 tablespoons milk**, and **1 teaspoon vanilla extract** until smooth. This is your vanilla icing.
- Divide the icing in half. Add **2 tablespoons cocoa powder** to one half to create the chocolate icing. Adjust the consistency with a splash of milk if needed.
### **Step 8: Decorate the Cookies**
- Once the cookies are completely cool, use a spatula or knife to spread the vanilla icing over one half of each cookie.
- Spread the chocolate icing over the other half, creating the classic half moon design.
- Let the icing set for at least 30 minutes before serving.
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## **Tips for Perfect Half Moon Cookies**
- Use room temperature ingredients for even mixing.
- Don’t overbake the cookies—they should remain soft and cake-like.
- For a glossy finish, add a teaspoon of corn syrup to the icing.
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## **Why You’ll Love Half Moon Cookies**
These cookies are a nostalgic favorite, combining a tender texture with rich, creamy icing. They’re perfect for sharing and can be customized with different flavors or colors for special occasions.
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By following this detailed guide, you’ll master the art of making half moon cookies that are sure to delight your family and friends. Don’t forget to share your creations on social media using #HalfMoonCookies!