Bachelor Button Cookies (VRP 014)

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Bachelor Button Cookies are a nostalgic treat that harks back to a time when simple, homemade cookies were a staple in every household. These cookies are a delightful blend of rich brown sugar, butter, and shredded coconut, with the added texture and flavor of Brazil nuts and candied cherries. This particular recipe comes from “Aunt Helen,” a name that brings with it a sense of familial warmth and tradition. The name “Bachelor Buttons” likely comes from pressing a thumbprint into the center of the cookie, resembling the old-fashioned buttons often seen on a bachelor’s shirt.

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Bachelor Button Cookies

A Sweet History: The Origins of Bachelor Button Cookies

Bachelor Button Cookies are part of a long tradition of thumbprint or “button” cookies that have been popular for generations. These cookies are often associated with holiday baking, where the center of the cookie is filled with jam, chocolate, or in this case, a candied cherry. The tradition of thumbprint cookies is believed to have originated in Sweden, where they are known as “Hallongrotta,” or “Raspberry Cave.” Over time, these cookies have evolved and spread across different cultures, each adding their own twist.

In the United States, variations of this cookie began appearing in cookbooks in the early 20th century. The addition of ingredients like Brazil nuts and candied cherries reflects the mid-century American palate, which often favored rich, sweet treats. The use of bread flour in this recipe is also notable, as it gives the cookies a slightly chewier texture, making them a satisfying treat.

Timeline: The Evolution of Bachelor Button Cookies

• Early 20th Century: Thumbprint cookies, similar to Bachelor Buttons, begin appearing in American cookbooks, often filled with jam.
• 1940s-1950s: Recipes for cookies with added nuts, coconut, and candied fruit become popular, reflecting the abundance of these ingredients in post-war America.
• 1960s-1970s: Bachelor Button Cookies, like many traditional recipes, continue to be passed down through families, often appearing in regional or community cookbooks.

Recipe Discussion: Ingredients and Techniques

Bachelor Button Cookies are made by creaming together butter and brown sugar, a method that ensures the cookies are rich and flavorful. The addition of an egg helps bind the ingredients together, while vanilla adds a touch of warmth and sweetness. The use of bread flour in this recipe is interesting—it has a higher protein content than all-purpose flour, which gives the cookies a slightly denser, chewier texture.

Shredded coconut and Brazil nuts add both flavor and texture to the cookies. Brazil nuts, in particular, are a unique choice, offering a rich, buttery flavor that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar and coconut. Candied cherries add a pop of color and sweetness, making these cookies as visually appealing as they are delicious.

Preparation Tips for Perfect Bachelor Button Cookies

• Creaming the Butter and Sugar: Ensure the butter is at room temperature before creaming it with the sugar. This allows the sugar to fully incorporate into the butter, creating a smooth, creamy base for the cookies.
• Adding the Flour Mixture: When adding the flour mixture to the butter and sugar, do so gradually to prevent the dough from becoming too dense. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the dough.
• Forming the Cookies: After baking, press the center of each cookie gently to create a well for the candied cherry. Allow the cookies to cool slightly before adding the cherry to prevent it from melting too much.

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• Silicone Baking Mat: This reusable mat provides an even baking surface and prevents the cookies from sticking, ensuring they come out perfectly every time.
• Cookie Scoop: A cookie scoop ensures that all your cookies are uniform in size, which helps them bake evenly and look professional.
• Cooling Rack: After baking, transfer your cookies to a cooling rack to allow air to circulate around them, which helps them cool evenly and prevents them from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions for Bachelor Button Cookies

• Holiday Cookie Tray: Bachelor Button Cookies are a festive addition to any holiday cookie tray. Their bright red cherry centers make them stand out, and their rich flavor pairs well with other holiday treats.
• Afternoon Tea: Serve these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon pick-me-up. Their sweet, nutty flavor pairs particularly well with herbal teas or a rich, dark roast coffee.
• Gift Giving: Pack these cookies in a decorative tin or box and give them as a homemade gift during the holidays. They travel well and are sure to be appreciated by anyone who receives them.

A Nostalgic Treat with a Sweet Center

Bachelor Button Cookies are a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that bring back the charm of old-fashioned baking. With their chewy base, crunchy nuts, and sweet cherry centers, these cookies are a delightful treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking them for a holiday gathering, an afternoon snack, or as a gift, Bachelor Button Cookies are sure to be a hit. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of tradition.

This box was purchased with another box, VRP015 – Wood Box, along with a Ziploc bag full of recipes. The seller of this box sent me the following:

I wish I had more information than this – I purchased these right outside of a small town called Monticello, Iowa. They had an estate auction and sold the house and the contents of the house. I don’t have a name or any other information. Hope this little bit helps, and that you enjoy your recipes. Thank you, Carol

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Vintage Recipe Box 014

There are lots of fun recipes to read in the box this recipe for Bachelor Button Cookies was with. Click here to view all of Vintage Recipe Box 14 recipes.

Bachelor Button Cookies Recipe

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Bachelor Button Cookies

Cook Time: 8 minutes

Total Time: 8 minutes

Print

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1 egg
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 2 cups bread flour
• 1 teaspoon soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup coconut, shredded
• 1/4 cup Brazil nuts, shredded
• 1/2 cup candied cherries, chopped

Instructions

1. Cream the butter and sugar
2. Add egg to the butter and sugar mix
3. Add vanilla
4. Sift together flour, baking soda, and salt
5. Mix in the coconut to the flour mixture
6. Add the flour mixture to the butter and sugar mixture
7. Bake at 350 degrees for 8 minutes
8. Remove from oven and press the middle of the cookie to add the cherries once the cookie has cooled

Notes

COOK NOTES:

The method was not included with this recipe.

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