Opłatki Christmas Wafers
During the festive season, many Polish households gather to share a special tradition called Opłatki. These thin wafers, often known as Christmas wafers, are more than just a snack; they hold great significance as a symbol of unity, forgiveness, and sharing blessings. The act of breaking and exchanging Opłatki during Christmas Eve dinner is a heartfelt tradition that brings loved ones together to start the holiday season on a warm and loving note.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the dry ingredients.
2. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and add the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
3. Using a spatula or wooden spoon, gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry mixture until a dough forms. You may need to use your hands to knead the dough lightly until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into smaller portions and roll each portion out on a floured surface until very thin, like a wafer. Aim for a thickness of about 1/16 inch.
5. Using a cookie cutter or a sharp knife, cut the rolled-out dough into rectangular wafers approximately 2×3 inches in size. You can make them bigger or smaller depending on your preference.
6. Place the individual wafers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and prick them with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming during baking.
7. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and bake the wafers for about 8-10 minutes or until they turn a light golden color.
8. Remove the wafers from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Once completely cooled, dust them with a sprinkling of confectioners’ sugar.
9. Serve the Opłatki Christmas Wafers during your Christmas Eve dinner, or package them in decorative bags to share with family and friends as a symbol of peace and goodwill.
Opłatki Christmas Wafers are not just a delightful treat for the holiday season but a way to honor tradition and connect with loved ones through a meaningful ritual. By making these wafers from scratch, you can infuse them with love and intention, adding a special touch to your Christmas celebrations. Share the joy and spirit of the season by breaking bread (or wafers) with those you hold dear, and may the tradition of Opłatki bring warmth and harmony to your home this Christmas and for years to come.
