In the midst of the festive holiday season, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the house. If you’re looking to add a touch of German-inspired sweetness to your Christmas baking repertoire, look no further than Zitronenherzen, or Lemon Hearts. These delightful little pastries are not only visually charming but also bursting with zesty citrus flavor, making them a perfect addition to any holiday spread. Let’s dive into the heartwarming joy of baking these delectable treats right in your own kitchen.
Title: Zitronenherzen Lemon Hearts
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or a stand mixer.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice, incorporating all the citrusy goodness into the batter.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut out the dough and place the hearts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
6. Bake the Lemon Hearts in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Be careful not to overbake, as you want the cookies to remain tender.
7. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once the Lemon Hearts have cooled, dust them generously with powdered sugar for a snow-kissed finishing touch.
9. Serve these delightful Zitronenherzen at your holiday gatherings, or package them up in festive bags to give as sweet gifts to friends and family. They’re sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face!
With their buttery texture, bright lemon flavor, and adorable heart shape, Zitronenherzen Lemon Hearts are a true delight for the senses. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea by the fireside or share them with loved ones during the holidays, these German Christmas cookies are bound to become a cherished tradition in your home. Embrace the joy of baking and fill your kitchen with the sweet scents of the season by trying your hand at making these irresistible Lemon Hearts. Happy baking!
