What does salt do to a cookie?

Salt plays a surprisingly important role in cookies, contributing to both flavor and texture:

Flavor:

* Enhances sweetness: Salt makes the sweetness of the cookie stand out more by balancing it. This isn't just about taste, but also how your taste buds perceive sweetness.

* Adds depth: Salt itself brings a subtle savory element to the cookie, creating a more complex and nuanced flavor profile.

* Complements other ingredients: Salt works well with the butter, sugar, and vanilla in cookies to create a harmonious flavor combination.

Texture:

* Improves browning: Salt helps the sugars in the cookie caramelize better, resulting in a more golden brown crust. This also contributes to a crispier texture.

* Strengthens gluten: Salt strengthens the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a chewier cookie.

* Helps retain moisture: While not a primary function, salt can help retain some moisture in the cookie, contributing to a more tender crumb.

Important Notes:

* Don't overdo it: A little salt goes a long way! Too much salt can overwhelm the other flavors and make your cookies taste salty instead of sweet.

* Different types of salt: Kosher salt and sea salt are preferred in baking, as they have a larger grain size and can be measured more accurately. Table salt is fine too, but you'll need to use less of it.

Overall, salt is a valuable ingredient in cookies, contributing to their taste, texture, and overall appeal. Even a small amount can make a big difference in the final product.