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Old-Fashioned Starchies (1910s Recipe)

These delightful cookies date back to early 20th-century Brazil, where they are known as Sequilhos or Biscoitos de Maizena.
With only three ingredients, they are irresistibly crumbly, soft, and gluten-free. A simple yet unique recipe from the 1910s, these cookies are perfect for teatime or a charming addition to your coffee spread.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Servings 2 dozen

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
  • ½ cup softened butter
  • 2 cups cornstarch

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 325°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • In a mixing bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and softened butter. Use a whisk or electric mixer to blend until smooth and creamy.
  • Gradually add the cornstarch, two tablespoons at a time, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon. Keep mixing until a soft dough forms.
  • Scoop out small portions of dough using a teaspoon or cookie scoop. Roll each portion between your hands to form smooth balls, about 2 inches in diameter. Arrange them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each.
  • Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring they stay pale and do not brown. Allow the cookies to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Keyword 1910s baking, Brazilian cookies, easy condensed milk cookies, gluten-free cookies, old recipes, old-fashioned cookie recipe, simple historical recipes, soft butter cookies, tea-time treats, three-ingredient cookies, vintage cookie recipe
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