16 Benne Wafers Recipe Southern Living Get Ready To Indulge!
Published on: Mar 11, 2024
Benne wafers, also known as sesame seed cookies, are a popular Southern treat that originated in Charleston, South Carolina. These crispy, buttery cookies are a beloved staple in many Southern homes and are often enjoyed during special occasions like holidays and family gatherings. If you're a fan of these delicious snacks or just looking to try something new, you're in luck because we have the perfect benne wafers recipe for you from Southern Living.
Main Ingredients: Butter, Yellow Cornmeal, Flour, Baking Soda, Salt
Southern cornbread is a staple in many Southern households, and for good reason. This simple, yet delicious, bread is perfect for any meal, from breakfast to dinner. The key to making the best Southern cornbread is to use a cast iron skillet. The skillet gives the bread a crispy, golden crust that perfectly complements the soft and fluffy interior. Try this recipe for Southern skillet cornbread and taste the true flavors of the South.
Southern smothered chicken is a classic comfort food dish that is sure to please any crowd. This dish is made by slow-cooking chicken in a rich, flavorful gravy until it is fall-off-the-bone tender. The gravy is made with a combination of onions, garlic, and spices, giving it a delicious depth of flavor. Serve this dish over rice or with a side of mashed potatoes for the ultimate Southern meal.
Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine and are often served as a side dish alongside fried chicken or barbecue. These hearty greens are packed with vitamins and minerals and are cooked down with bacon, onions, and spices for a delicious and savory flavor. Don't be afraid to add a splash of hot sauce or vinegar for a little extra kick.
In the South, cornbread dressing is a must-have dish for any holiday or special occasion. Made with crumbled cornbread, onions, celery, and spices, this dish is rich, savory, and oh-so-delicious. It's the perfect complement to a Thanksgiving turkey or a Christmas ham.
Oxtails may not be the most common cut of meat, but in the South, they are a beloved delicacy. These tender and flavorful pieces of meat are slow-cooked in a rich and savory gravy until they are melt-in-your-mouth tender. Serve them over rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
6of 40
Classic Flaky Southern Biscuits
Main Ingredients: Flour, Whole Milk, Butter, Sugar, Baking Powder, Salt
No Southern meal is complete without a batch of freshly baked biscuits. These classic Southern biscuits are light, flaky, and buttery, making them the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Serve them warm with a dollop of butter and a drizzle of honey for a truly indulgent treat.
Mac and cheese is a childhood favorite for many, but in the South, it is taken to a whole new level. This Southern baked macaroni and cheese is made with a combination of sharp cheddar and creamy Velveeta cheese, giving it a rich and velvety texture. Baked until golden and bubbly, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
If you prefer your mac and cheese to have a crispy, crunchy topping, then this Southern baked mac and cheese is the recipe for you. Panko breadcrumbs, shredded cheese, and a splash of hot sauce are added to the top of the mac and cheese before baking, creating a delicious layer of texture and flavor. It's the ultimate comfort food dish.
9of 40
Southern Pecan Cheese Wafers
Main Ingredients: Butter, Worcestershire Sauce, Flour, Salt, Cayenne
These savory and buttery wafers are the perfect appetizer for any Southern gathering. Made with a combination of cheese, flour, and pecans, these wafers are crispy and full of flavor. They are perfect for snacking on before a big meal or for serving as a party snack.
If you love pecan pie but don't want to go through the hassle of making a whole pie, then these Southern pecan pie bars are the perfect solution. These bars are made with a buttery shortbread crust and a rich and gooey pecan filling. They are the perfect balance of sweet and nutty, and they are sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Peach cobbler is a classic Southern dessert that is loved by all. This recipe takes the traditional cobbler to the next level by adding a splash of bourbon and a sprinkle of cinnamon to the peaches. The result is a warm and comforting dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
If you're looking for a simple and traditional collard greens recipe, then this is the one for you. Made with just a few ingredients, including collard greens, bacon, and chicken broth, these greens are full of flavor and are the perfect side dish for any Southern meal.
Pimento cheese is a Southern staple that can be used in a variety of ways, from a dip for crackers to a spread for sandwiches. This recipe takes the classic pimento cheese and adds a few extra ingredients, like cream cheese and Worcestershire sauce, for a creamy and flavorful twist.
Cabbage may seem like a simple and boring vegetable, but in the South, it is transformed into a delicious and flavorful side dish. This recipe combines cabbage with bacon, onions, and spices to create a savory and satisfying dish that pairs well with any Southern meal.
This classic Southern cornbread recipe is a must-have for any cook. Made with a combination of cornmeal, flour, and buttermilk, this cornbread is moist, flavorful, and has the perfect balance of sweet and savory. It's the perfect addition to any meal.
Sausage gravy and biscuits is a classic breakfast dish in the South, but it can also be enjoyed for lunch or dinner. This recipe for Southern sausage gravy is made with a combination of breakfast sausage, flour, and milk, creating a rich and creamy gravy that is perfect for pouring over warm biscuits.
Hush puppies are a classic Southern side dish that is often served alongside fried seafood or barbecue. These little balls of fried cornmeal are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the perfect complement to any meal.
Squash casserole is a staple at many Southern potlucks and family gatherings. This recipe combines yellow squash, onions, and cheese for a creamy and delicious casserole that is sure to please. It's the perfect way to use up a surplus of squash from your garden.
Fried corn may not be the healthiest side dish, but it sure is delicious. This Southern fried corn recipe is made with fresh corn kernels, bacon, and onions, creating a sweet and savory dish that is perfect for any occasion.
Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that is often enjoyed for breakfast, but it can also be served for lunch or dinner. This recipe combines creamy and cheesy grits with plump and juicy shrimp for a dish that is full of flavor and texture. It's the ultimate comfort food meal.
21of 40
Southern Cornbread – Southern Skillet Cornbread
Main Ingredients: Butter, Yellow Cornmeal, Flour, Baking Soda, Salt
No Southern meal is complete without a side of warm, buttery cornbread. This Southern skillet cornbread recipe takes it to the next level with a crispy crust and a fluffy, moist interior. The secret? Baking it in a cast iron skillet.
Made with simple ingredients like cornmeal, flour, buttermilk, and a touch of sugar, this Southern cornbread is the perfect accompaniment to your beer can chicken. It's also great on its own as a snack or breakfast treat. So go ahead and indulge in this classic Southern comfort food.
This Southern smothered chicken recipe is a staple in many Southern households. It's a one-pot meal that's packed with flavor and perfect for feeding a crowd. The chicken is cooked low and slow in a rich, savory gravy, resulting in tender, fall-off-the-bone meat.
To add a twist to this recipe, try using your beer can chicken as the base for the gravy. The beer will infuse the chicken with even more flavor, making this dish a true Southern delight.
Cooked collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine and often served as a side dish to complement the main course. These greens are slow cooked with bacon, onions, and a touch of vinegar for a tangy kick.
For a unique twist on this classic dish, try adding shredded pieces of your beer can chicken to the pot. The meat will soak up all the delicious flavors and add a protein boost to this already nutritious dish. Yum!
Cornbread dressing, also known as cornbread stuffing, is a classic Southern side dish often served during Thanksgiving and other holiday meals. This dressing is made with cornbread, of course, as well as a mix of other ingredients like celery, onion, and herbs.
For a flavorful variation, try using your beer can chicken in this recipe instead of traditional chicken or turkey. The beer will add a depth of flavor and moisture to the dressing, making it even more irresistible.
Oxtails are a beloved Southern comfort food, often slow cooked until they are tender and falling off the bone. This smothered oxtails recipe is no exception, with a rich and flavorful gravy that pairs perfectly with the meat.
For a twist on this recipe, use your beer can chicken as the base for the gravy. The combination of flavors from the beer and the oxtails will create a delicious and unique dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
26of 40
Classic Flaky Southern Biscuits
Main Ingredients: Flour, Whole Milk, Butter, Sugar, Baking Powder, Salt
No Southern meal is complete without a batch of warm, flaky biscuits. This classic Southern biscuit recipe is a favorite in many households, with its simple ingredients and easy preparation.
For a tasty addition, try serving your beer can chicken on top of these biscuits for a delicious open-faced sandwich. The combination of the tender chicken and the buttery, flaky biscuit is sure to be a hit.
Southern baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, with its gooey, cheesy goodness and crispy breadcrumb topping. This recipe takes it up a notch by using a mix of different cheeses for a complex and delicious flavor.
For a protein-packed version of this beloved dish, add chunks of your beer can chicken to the mac and cheese before baking. The result? A hearty and satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more.
Southern baked mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food, with its gooey, cheesy goodness and crispy breadcrumb topping. This recipe takes it up a notch by using a mix of different cheeses for a complex and delicious flavor.
For a protein-packed version of this beloved dish, add chunks of your beer can chicken to the mac and cheese before baking. The result? A hearty and satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more.
29of 40
Southern Pecan Cheese Wafers
Main Ingredients: Butter, Worcestershire Sauce, Flour, Salt, Cayenne
Southern pecan cheese wafers are a popular appetizer in the South, often served at parties and gatherings. These crispy, savory treats are made with cheddar cheese, pecans, and a touch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick.
For a unique twist on this recipe, try adding shredded pieces of your beer can chicken to the wafers. The chicken will add a delicious and unexpected flavor to these already tasty bites.
Pecan pie is a classic Southern dessert that's often served during the holidays. These pecan pie bars are a fun twist on the traditional pie, with a buttery shortbread crust and a rich and gooey pecan filling.
For an extra special touch, try adding crumbled bits of your beer can chicken to the pecan filling. The combination of sweet and savory flavors will be a hit with your taste buds.
Peach cobbler is a beloved Southern dessert, made with juicy peaches and a flaky crust. This recipe takes it to the next level by adding a touch of bourbon and a streusel topping for a truly decadent treat.
For a unique twist, try incorporating chunks of your beer can chicken into the peach filling. The chicken will soak up all the delicious flavors and add a savory element to this sweet dessert.
Cooked collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine and often served as a side dish to complement the main course. These greens are slow cooked with bacon, onions, and a touch of vinegar for a tangy kick.
For a unique twist on this classic dish, try adding shredded pieces of your beer can chicken to the pot. The meat will soak up all the delicious flavors and add a protein boost to this already nutritious dish. Yum!
Pimento cheese is a classic Southern spread that's perfect for sandwiches, dips, or just eating straight out of the bowl. This recipe uses a mix of cheddar and cream cheese for an extra creamy and tangy flavor.
For a tasty variation, try adding crumbled bits of your beer can chicken to the pimento cheese. The chicken will add a unique flavor and texture to this already delicious spread.
Southern cabbage is a simple side dish that's often served alongside fried chicken or other Southern comfort foods. This recipe uses just a few ingredients, like cabbage, bacon, and onions, for a flavorful and easy-to-make dish.
For a protein-packed version, try adding shredded pieces of your beer can chicken to the cabbage mixture while it cooks. The chicken will add a delicious and unexpected element to this classic dish.
Southern cornbread is a staple in many households, often served as a side to complement a main course or as a snack on its own. This simple recipe uses just a few ingredients, like cornmeal, flour, and buttermilk, for a delicious and classic cornbread.
For a tasty variation, try adding crumbled bits of your beer can chicken to the cornbread batter before baking. The chicken will add a touch of protein and a unique flavor to this Southern favorite.
Sausage gravy is a popular Southern breakfast dish, often served over biscuits or toast. This recipe uses a combination of sausage, milk, and spices for a hearty and flavorful gravy.
For a twist on this classic recipe, try using your beer can chicken as the base for the gravy. The beer will add a depth of flavor and moisture to the gravy, making it even more delicious.
Hush puppies are a beloved Southern snack, made with a cornmeal batter and deep fried until crispy and golden brown. This recipe adds a twist by incorporating shredded cheese and jalapenos for a spicy kick.
For a unique variation, try adding shredded pieces of your beer can chicken to the hush puppy batter. The chicken will add a savory element to these already tasty bites.
Squash casserole is a popular dish in the South, often served as a side to complement a main course. This recipe uses yellow squash, onion, and cheddar cheese for a flavorful and comforting casserole.
For a tasty twist, try adding shredded pieces of your beer can chicken to the casserole before baking. The chicken will add a protein boost and a delicious flavor to this classic dish.
Fried corn is a simple yet delicious Southern side dish, often served alongside barbecue or other Southern favorites. This recipe uses just a few ingredients, like corn, butter, and sugar, for a sweet and savory dish.
For a unique twist, try adding chunks of your beer can chicken to the corn mixture while it cooks. The beer will infuse the chicken with even more flavor, making this dish a true Southern treat.
Shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish, often served for breakfast or brunch. This recipe features creamy grits topped with succulent shrimp, all cooked in a flavorful sauce made with bacon, onions, and spices.
For a delicious variation, try adding shredded pieces of your beer can chicken to the grits while they cook. The chicken will add a protein boost and a unique flavor to this already tasty dish.
The History of Benne Wafers
The history of benne wafers can be traced back to the Gullah culture, which is a distinct group of African Americans who lived in the coastal regions of South Carolina and Georgia. The word "benne" comes from the Bantu word for sesame, and these cookies were originally made with sesame seeds, which were brought to America by African slaves. Benne wafers were traditionally served during celebrations and were considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity. Today, these cookies are still beloved by many and continue to be a staple in Southern cuisine.
The Ingredients and Preparation
To make benne wafers, you will need basic baking ingredients such as flour, sugar, butter, and eggs, as well as sesame seeds and a few other key ingredients. The recipe from Southern Living calls for brown sugar, which adds a rich, caramel-like flavor to the cookies, and vanilla extract, which enhances the overall taste. The sesame seeds are the star of the show, giving the cookies their signature nutty, toasty flavor.
To prepare the dough, you will first need to cream together the butter and sugar, then add in the eggs and vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour and sesame seeds before gradually incorporating the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. The dough will be slightly sticky, but fear not, this is what gives the cookies their crispy texture.
The Baking Process
Once the dough is ready, it's time to bake the benne wafers. Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Using a fork, gently press down on the dough balls to create a crisscross pattern. This not only adds a decorative touch, but it also helps the cookies bake evenly. Bake the cookies for about 10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Serving and Enjoying Benne Wafers
After the cookies have cooled, they are ready to be served and enjoyed. Benne wafers are perfect for snacking on their own, but they can also be paired with a cup of tea or coffee for a delightful afternoon treat. These cookies also make great gifts for friends and family, and can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
In conclusion, benne wafers are a delicious and culturally significant Southern treat that has stood the test of time. With their rich history and irresistible flavor, it's no wonder that they continue to be a beloved favorite in many Southern homes. So why not give this benne wafers recipe a try and experience the magic of these delightful cookies for yourself? Your taste buds will thank you.
