How to Make Edible Cookie Dough That Won't Give You Salmonella

Edible cookie dough is a favorite treat for many, but raw cookie dough can pose health risks due to raw eggs and unbaked flour. Fortunately, there are simple methods to create a safe version of this indulgent snack. This article will guide you through making edible cookie dough that is safe to eat.

Ingredients You'll Need

To make a safe and delicious edible cookie dough, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour (heat-treated)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk (or more as needed)
• ½ cup chocolate chips or your choice of mix-ins (such as nuts or dried fruits)

Heat-Treating Flour

Raw flour can contain harmful bacteria, so it's important to heat-treat it before using it in your cookie dough. To do this, spread the flour on a baking sheet and bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes, or until the flour reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C). Allow it to cool before incorporating it into your recipe.

Making the Cookie Dough

Once your ingredients are ready and the flour is heat-treated, follow these steps:

1. Cream the Butter and Sugars: In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to cream the mixture until it is light and fluffy.

2. Add Vanilla and Milk: Mix in the vanilla extract and milk. Adjust the amount of milk based on your desired consistency. The dough should be smooth but not overly sticky.

3. Incorporate the Flour: Gradually add the heat-treated flour to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

4. Add Mix-Ins: Fold in your chocolate chips or other mix-ins.

5. Taste and Adjust: At this point, you can taste your dough. If you feel it needs more sweetness or flavor, you can adjust with more sugar or extract.

6. Serve or Store: Enjoy your edible cookie dough immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Final Thoughts

Making edible cookie dough is a straightforward process that allows you to enjoy a classic treat safely. By following these steps and using heat-treated flour, you can indulge in a sweet snack without the worry of foodborne illnesses. Feel free to experiment with flavors and mix-ins to find your perfect combination.