How to Make Healthier Homemade Vanilla Wafers

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Healthier Homemade Vanilla Wafers are a game-changer for anyone who loves the classic treat but wants a better option for their family. These sweet, crispy cookies are made with simple, wholesome ingredients, making them a delicious and nutritious alternative to the store-bought kind.

I created this recipe because of a moment with my kids at the grocery store. We were going down the snack aisle and my oldest saw these cookie and begged me to buy them. While I wanted to say yes, I couldn’t ignore the processed ingredients in the boxed version. Inspired to give them the treat they love without compromising on quality, I came up with a recipe that’s not only healthier but just as tasty and fun to make together at home.

With just a few pantry staples and healthier swaps, I created a version of this classic cookie that’s free from preservatives, artificial flavors, and refined sugars. Plus, they’re just as delicious and crispy as the ones you’ll find in a box.

Why You’ll Love this Recipe

No Artificial Additives: Store-bought cookies are packed with preservatives and additives, which aren’t ideal for everyday snacking. With homemade wafers, you can avoid those and stick to real ingredients.

Healthier Sweeteners: Instead of highly refined sugars, I use cane sugar in my recipe for healthier homemade vanilla wafers. It’s a simple swap that offers a less processed option while maintaining sweetness.

Real Vanilla Flavor: The rich, genuine taste of vanilla extract elevates these cookies, and you won’t find any artificial vanilla flavoring here.

Kid-Friendly and Fun to Make: Making these homemade vanilla wafers is not only healthier, but also a great activity to enjoy with your kids. They love helping scoop the dough and pressing the cookies flat.

Ingredients Breakdown

Butter, softened: The key ingredient in these cookies. It creates the rich, buttery flavor and tender texture that makes these cookies so delicious.

Cane sugar: provides just the right amount of sweetness without the overly processed nature of refined white sugar.

Eggs: act as binder and contribute to the soft, chewy texture.

Pure Vanilla Extract: Essential for that vanilla wafer flavor. Make sure you use a quality vanilla extract!

All-Purpose Flour: The base of the cookies, providing structure and stability.

Baking Powder: helps the cookies rise slightly and keeps them light and airy.

Sea Salt: A pinch balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors

How to Make Healthier Homemade Vanilla Wafers

1. Preheat Your Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the butter and cane sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Mix until the texture is light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. This gives the healthier homemade vanilla wafers their delicate, airy texture.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then add the pure vanilla extract for that authentic flavor.
4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and sea salt. If you’re using whole wheat or spelt flour for a more nutritious version, the cookies will have a slightly nuttier flavor and more texture.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep your homemade vanilla wafers soft and light.
6. Shape and Bake: Using a teaspoon or small cookie scoop, drop dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Flatten each slightly with the back of the spoon for an even bake.
7. Bake: Bake the vanilla wafers for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. For crispier cookies, bake an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Cool and Enjoy: Let the vanilla wafers cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy them warm or store them in an airtight container for up to a week!

Tips for the Best Healthier Homemade Vanilla Wafers

• Cream the butter and sugar well.
• Use a high-quality vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste.
• For extra crispy wafers, bake them a bit long and make sure they cool all the way.
• Store in an airtight container for up to a week, or freeze them for up to three months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these cookies gluten-free?
Yes! You can use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour. Make sure it includes a binding agent like xanthan gum for the best texture.

How should I store these vanilla wafers?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Can I use a sugar substitute instead of cane sugar?
Absolutely. Coconut sugar or a granulated sugar substitute like monk fruit can work well, though it may slightly alter the flavor and color of the cookies.

What’s the best way to get evenly shaped wafers?
Using a small cookie scoop ensures uniform size and even baking. You can also gently flatten the dough balls with the back of a spoon for that classic wafer look.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these healthier homemade vanilla wafers with a cup of hot chocolate, add them to your favorite banana pudding recipe or simply grab a few as a better option snack!

If you enjoyed this recipe, I’d be so grateful if you could take a moment to leave a 5-star rating below! Be sure to tag me @simplychelseahome on Instagram so I can see your delicious results!