Using olive oil in cookies offers several benefits:

Healthier Fat Source: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, making it a healthier option compared to butter.
Moisture and Texture: Olive oil can create a moist and chewy texture in cookies, often resulting in a softer bite.
Flavor: High-quality extra virgin olive oil adds a distinct fruity flavor that can enhance the overall taste of your cookies.

To make delicious cookies with olive oil, gather the following ingredients:

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil (use a high-quality brand for the best flavor)
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
1 large egg
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chocolate chips (or your favorite mix-ins)

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and egg until well combined. Add the vanilla extract and mix again.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in the chocolate chips or any desired mix-ins, such as nuts or dried fruit.

Scoop the Dough: Using a cookie scoop or tablespoon, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.

Bake: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly underbaked, but they will continue to set as they cool.

Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Quality Olive Oil: The flavor of your cookies will depend significantly on the quality of the olive oil used. Opt for extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
Mix-ins: Feel free to customize your cookies with different mix-ins like nuts, dried fruits, or even citrus zest for an extra flavor boost.
Storage: Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the cookies for up to two months.

For a refreshing twist, try making lemon olive oil sugar cookies. Replace some of the sugar with lemon zest and add a touch of lemon juice to the dough. This will create a zesty, bright flavor that pairs beautifully with the olive oil.

If you love chocolate chip cookies, consider using olive oil in your recipe. The result is a chewy cookie with crispy edges and a rich chocolate flavor. You can find variations of this recipe that include different types of chocolate or nuts for added texture.

Cookies made with olive oil are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional recipes. With their unique flavors and chewy textures, these cookies are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you choose to stick with the classic chocolate chip version or experiment with lemon zest, baking with olive oil opens up a world of culinary possibilities. So grab your ingredients and start baking your new favorite cookies today!