If you’re looking to infuse your holiday season with a touch of German tradition, then Mandelspekulatius, also known as Almond Speculoos, is the perfect Christmas baking recipe to try. This delightful treat combines the warm flavors of almonds and spices in a crisp, buttery cookie that is sure to become a favorite at your holiday gatherings. Whether you enjoy them with a cup of tea or share them with friends and family, Mandelspekulatius cookies are a delicious way to celebrate the festive season.
Title: Mandelspekulatius Almond Speculoos
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup finely chopped almonds
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the egg and almond extract until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
5. Fold in the chopped almonds until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Divide the dough in half and shape each portion into a log about 2 inches in diameter.
7. Wrap the dough logs in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or until firm.
8. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
9. Remove the chilled dough logs from the refrigerator and slice them into cookies about 1/4 inch thick.
10. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
12. Allow the Mandelspekulatius cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
These Almond Speculoos cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday cookie platter. Their warm spices and crunchy almonds make them a perfect treat to enjoy with a hot cup of cocoa or coffee by the fireplace. Whether you bake them for yourself or share them with loved ones, Mandelspekulatius cookies are sure to be a hit this Christmas season. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat the oven, and let the comforting aroma of these festive cookies fill your cozy home with joy and cheer. Happy baking!
