Welcome to the magical world of German Christmas baking! Today, we have a delightful recipe to warm your heart and fill your home with the cozy scents of the holiday season. Schoko Zitronen Herzen, or Chocolate Lemon Hearts, are a delicate and delicious treat that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with a burst of zesty lemon. These festive cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying by the fire with a cozy blanket. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe and bring some German Christmas cheer to your kitchen!
Schoko Zitronen Herzen (Chocolate Lemon Hearts)
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cocoa powder
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, and mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, lemon zest, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
5. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use heart-shaped cookie cutters to cut out cookies, and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until set. Let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once the cookies have cooled, dust them with confectioners’ sugar for a snowy finish.
10. Repeat the rolling, cutting, and baking process with the remaining disk of dough until all the cookies are baked.
These Schoko Zitronen Herzen are a delightful combination of flavors and textures – the richness of chocolate paired with the bright citrusy notes of lemon. They are perfect for gifting in decorative tins, serving at holiday gatherings, or simply indulging in as a cozy treat at home. Embrace the joy of the season with every bite of these heart-shaped cookies.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the festive baking begin! Get ready to fill your home with the sweet aroma of Schoko Zitronen Herzen and create cherished memories in the heart of the holiday season. Enjoy the process of baking and sharing these delightful treats with your loved ones. Happy baking and happy holidays!
