Benne Sesame Seed Cookies Recipe - benne

Method

• Known as sesame seeds in most of the country, "benne" is the name southerners learned to call these seeds, that were brought from Africa by slaves.
• Toasting benne seeds develop their flavor and also gives these cookies a slightly crunchy texture.
• Heat oven to 375.
• Toast benne seeds on ungreased baking sheet till light brown, 10 to 12 min.
• Watch closely so they do not burn.
• In a large bowl, mix all ingredients.
• Drop dough by 1/2 teaspoonfuls 1 1/2 inches apart onto greased baking sheet.
• Bake at 375 till light brown, about 4-6 min.
• Cold about 2 min before removing from baking sheets to wire rack to cold completely.
• Store in tightly covered cookie tin when thoroughly cooled.
• Yield: about 6 dozen.
• Pat Thomas, retired food editor, Yakima WA