Effect of barley flour on the physical and sensory characteristics of chocolate chip cookies

The present study explored the possibility of using barley flour as an ingredient to incorporate soluble fibre (beta-glucan) in chocolate-chip cookies. Some clinical studies have shown that beta-glucan might reduce the serum cholesterol levels. The objective of this study was to determine the physical and sensory characteristics of chocolate chip cookies partly substituted with barley flour at different levels. Physical characteristics (water activity and L*a*b* colour) and sensory characteristics (descriptive and consumer analysis) were evaluated on the experimental cookies substituted with 0, 30, 40, 50, 60 and 70% barley flour for all-purpose flour. There were increases in the baked-barley aroma and flavour, thickness, colour intensity, dryness and graininess with increasing barley flour content. Consumer data showed that cookies made with 30% (0.5 g beta-glucan/serving) and 50% (0.8 g beta-glucan/serving) barley flour substitution were comparable in liking to the control (0% substitution) cookie and a commercial cookie. The presence of beta-glucan in our chocolate-chip cookies might make them a healthier option for many consumers.