Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love the taste of classic vanilla wafers but crave something with more flavor and crunch, this recipe is for you! These homemade vanilla wafers have a depth of flavor that store-bought versions just can’t match. Their crisp edges and golden-brown bottoms are perfect for snacking or for adding to desserts like banana pudding. With simple ingredients and an easy process, you’ll want to make these over and over again.

Ingredients

½ cup butter, room temperature
1 cup sugar
1 egg
2 tablespoons vanilla extract
1 tablespoon milk
1½ cups all-purpose flour
¾ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon kosher salt
Maldon salt for topping

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Homemade Vanilla Wafers Recipe

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175°C). Line 2 sheet pans with parchment paper and set aside.
In a mixing bowl, combine the butter and sugar. Beat with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the bowl halfway through.
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and milk to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat again until everything is fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. Add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix on low speed until just incorporated.
Use a small scoop (about 1 teaspoon) to place dough balls on the prepared sheet pans, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The cookies will spread as they bake.
Bake for 8-9 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Turn one over to check that the bottom is golden brown.
Allow the cookies to cool on the pans for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Sprinkle Maldon salt on top for an extra touch of flavor (optional).

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields about 24 small cookies.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8-9 minutes per batch
Total Time: 18-20 minutes (depending on batch size)

Storage/Reheating

Store your homemade vanilla wafers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. To enjoy them after freezing, simply thaw at room temperature.

FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, you can use salted butter, but be sure to reduce the added salt in the recipe to adjust for the salt in the butter.

2. Can I substitute the vanilla extract with vanilla bean paste or fresh vanilla beans?

Absolutely! Vanilla bean paste or scraped vanilla beans will give the cookies a rich, natural vanilla flavor.

3. Can I make these cookies larger?

Yes, using a 1 tablespoon scoop will give you about 3-4 inch cookies. Just keep in mind that they will need to bake for 10-12 minutes.

4. Can I make these cookies gluten-free?

Yes, you can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the blend includes xanthan gum or another binder.

5. What type of salt should I use for topping?

Maldon salt is perfect for adding a nice crunch and burst of flavor on top of the cookies. If you don’t have Maldon salt, you can use any flaky sea salt or kosher salt.

6. Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes, you can scoop the dough into balls and freeze them. Bake the frozen dough directly, but add an extra minute or two to the baking time.

7. How can I make these cookies softer?

If you prefer softer cookies, try reducing the baking time slightly or using slightly more butter in the recipe.

8. Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins to the dough?

Yes, feel free to add chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit to the dough before baking for extra flavor and texture.

9. How can I make the cookies less sweet?

To reduce the sweetness, you can decrease the sugar by about ¼ cup. Keep in mind this may alter the texture slightly.

10. What should I do if my dough is too sticky?

If the dough feels too sticky to scoop, chill it in the fridge for about 20 minutes before scooping and baking.

Conclusion

These Homemade Vanilla Wafers are the perfect balance of crispy, crunchy, and sweet with a deep vanilla flavor that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re snacking on them, adding them to a dessert, or gifting them to someone special, these cookies are sure to impress. They’re easy to make, and you can customize them to fit your preferences, making them a must-try in your baking repertoire!

Homemade Vanilla Wafers Recipe

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These Homemade Vanilla Wafers are a delightful, crispy, and flavorful treat, offering a rich vanilla taste in every bite. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, these bite-sized cookies are perfect for snacking, desserts, or as a crunchy topping for banana pudding. Enjoy the golden, crisp edges and the sweet, comforting flavor of homemade vanilla wafers.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8-9 minutes per batch
Total Time: 18-20 minutes
Yield: 24 small cookies
Category: Cookies, Desserts, Snacks
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175°C). Line 2 sheet pans with parchment paper.
Beat the butter and sugar in a mixing bowl with an electric mixer until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
Add the egg, vanilla extract, and milk, then beat until well combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, and kosher salt. Add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until just incorporated.
Scoop small dough balls (about 1 teaspoon) and place them on the sheet pans, spaced about 2 inches apart.
Bake for 8-9 minutes until the edges are golden brown.
Let the cookies cool on the pans for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optionally, sprinkle Maldon salt on top before serving.

Notes

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months.

For Larger Cookies: Use a 1 tablespoon scoop and bake for 10-12 minutes.

Add-ins: Feel free to add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the dough.