How to Make Benne Wafers - A Step-by-Step Guide

Benne wafers are a classic Southern treat that have been enjoyed for generations. Originally brought to America by West African slaves, benne wafers have become a beloved delicacy in the Charleston, South Carolina area, and are often enjoyed during the holiday season.

These thin, crisp cookies are made with simple ingredients, but they pack a big punch of flavor. The key ingredient in benne wafers is sesame seeds, also known as benne seeds, which give the cookies their unique flavor a...

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Ingredients

  • 1 cup sesame seeds
  • 1 ½ cups packed brown sugar
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup butter, melted
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder

Information

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Total Time: 40 mins
  • Servings: 72
  • Yield: 6 dozen

  • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
  • Place sesame seeds on an ungreased baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until light brown. Watch closely so that they don't burn.
  • Mix together brown sugar, flour, toasted sesame seeds, melted butter, egg, vanilla, salt, and baking powder in a large bowl until combined.
  • Drop dough by 1/2 teaspoonfuls, 1 1/2 inches apart, onto a lightly greased baking sheet.
  • Bake in batches in the preheated oven for 4 to 6 minutes, until light brown. Let cookies cool briefly before removing from baking sheets to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Repeat Steps 4 and 5 to bake remaining batches.
  • Nutrition

    53 cal.

    • Total Fat: 3g
    • Saturated Fat: 1g
    • Cholesterol: 8mg
    • Sodium: 25mg
    • Total Carbohydrate: 6g
    • Dietary Fiber: 0g
    • Protein: 1g
    • Calcium: 26mg
    • Iron: 0mg
    • Potassium: 19mg