Mtedza
Malawi Peanut Cookies
Mtedza are delightful, crumbly Malawian cookies made with groundnuts (peanuts), offering a rich, buttery flavor with a satisfying crunch. They are often dusted with powdered sugar and are a popular snack.
🧂 Ingredients
- 100 g Shelled peanuts(roasted, finely ground)
- 125 g Soft butter(room temperature)
- 75 g Sugar(or 1/3 cup)
- 0.5 tsp Vanilla extract
- 150 g All-purpose flour(or 1 cup)
- 1 pinch Salt
- Powdered sugar(for dusting)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- 2
Grind the shelled peanuts in a food processor until fine, but with some texture remaining.
- 3
In a bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes.
- 4
Add the ground peanuts, vanilla extract, flour, and salt to the butter mixture. Mix until a crumbly dough forms.
- 5
Form the dough into small balls, about 20 grams each (walnut-sized). Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
- 6
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
- 7
Remove from the oven. While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar. Let them cool completely, then roll them again in powdered sugar for a sweet finish.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using roasted peanuts enhances the flavor.
- ✓Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
- ✓The cookies are meant to be crumbly; do not overmix the dough.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Some recipes omit vanilla extract, focusing solely on the peanut flavor.
- For a less sweet cookie, reduce the sugar in the dough and use less powdered sugar for dusting.