Desserts
Crisp Benne Seed Wafers
Thin, lacy sesame wafers with toasted benne seeds and a caramelized brown sugar snap, a Lowcountry tradition in every bite.
Benne seeds, brought to the Lowcountry generations ago, are simply sesame seeds by another name, and toasting them here brings out a deep, nutty flavor. These wafers bake up thin and delicate, with lacy caramelized edges that shatter satisfyingly with the first bite.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sesame seeds
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
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1
Toast the sesame seedsToast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, for 3 to 4 minutes until fragrant and golden. Set aside to cool.
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2
Cream butter and sugarBeat the butter and brown sugar together until smooth and glossy, then mix in the egg and vanilla.
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3
Add dry ingredientsWhisk the flour, baking powder, and salt together, then stir into the butter mixture along with the toasted sesame seeds until just combined.
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4
Drop small portionsDrop half-teaspoon portions of batter onto parchment-lined baking sheets, spacing them at least 3 inches apart since they spread significantly.
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5
Bake until lacyBake at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes, until deeply golden and lacy at the edges. Let the wafers cool completely on the pan before peeling them off the parchment.
Okra & Oak Tip
Use very small portions of batter and give them plenty of room, since benne wafers spread thin and will merge if placed too close together.
Storage
Store cooled wafers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, layering with parchment to protect their delicate edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but toasting them fresh right before baking brings out a noticeably deeper, nuttier flavor worth the extra few minutes.
The batter portions were likely too large or the oven wasn't quite hot enough; use smaller scoops and verify your oven temperature with a thermometer.
Nutrition
Per serving. Values are estimates.
92
Calories
1g
Protein
11g
Carbs
5g
Fat
