Georgia’s Sweet and Savory Delight: Benne Wafers Recipe to Satisfy Your Cravings

Benne wafers are a Southern favorite, a perfect mix of nutty sweetness with a crispy bite. Although benne wafers have their roots in South Carolina’s Lowcountry, Georgia has its own way of embracing this traditional treat. These delicate, sesame seed-packed wafers are a popular snack that reflects the history and flavors of the South. With each bite, you get a taste of centuries of culinary heritage, making them a timeless staple in Southern kitchens.

Photo byNick Davies

In Georgia, these wafers are often enjoyed at festive gatherings, family picnics, or just as an everyday snack. The subtle sweetness combined with the toasted sesame seeds creates a balance of flavor that will have you reaching for more. Making benne wafers at home isn’t just a way to enjoy their deliciousness—it's a nod to Georgia's shared culture and tradition with its coastal neighbors.

Recipe: Georgia-Style Benne Wafers

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sesame seeds (benne seeds), toasted
• 1 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, softened
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toast the sesame seeds in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, blending until just combined.
6. Fold in the toasted sesame seeds.
7. Drop small spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart as they will spread.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned. Let the wafers cool completely on the baking sheet to become crisp.

A Southern Tradition on Every Table

These crispy, golden wafers make for a perfect snack or dessert. The toasted sesame seeds give them a rich, nutty flavor that complements their sweetness, making them ideal for pairing with a cup of coffee or tea. In Georgia, families pass down their own versions of benne wafers, making them an ever-present part of celebrations and everyday life.

Whether you're new to this Southern delicacy or it's a longtime favorite, Georgia-style benne wafers will surely become a staple in your household. They're light, crispy, and full of the simple, yet rich flavors that define Southern baking. Every bite is a reminder of the region’s culinary charm, and this recipe makes it easy to bring that charm into your home.

Sources:

Family Recipe