Austrian Christmas baking is a delightful tradition that brings warmth and cheer to the holiday season. One such beloved treat is Vanillekipferl, also known as Vanilla Crescent Cookies. These crescent-shaped cookies are delicate, buttery, and fragrant with vanilla, making them a perfect addition to your festive baking repertoire. Let’s dive into the recipe and create these mouthwatering treats that are sure to fill your home with joy and the scent of the holidays.
**Vanillekipferl Vanilla Crescent Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup ground almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the vanilla extract and mix well. Gradually stir in the ground almonds, flour, and salt until a smooth dough forms.
2. **Shape the Cookies:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a ball, then shape it into a crescent by rolling it into a log and bending it slightly. Place the crescents on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each cookie.
3. **Bake the Cookies:** Bake the Vanillekipferl in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden but still pale. Be careful not to overbake them as they should remain tender and delicate. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet.
4. **Coat in Powdered Sugar:** While the cookies are still warm, carefully transfer them to a shallow dish filled with powdered sugar. Gently roll each cookie in the powdered sugar until fully coated, giving them their signature snowy appearance. Place the coated cookies on a wire rack to cool completely.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the Vanillekipferl have cooled and the powdered sugar has set, they are ready to be enjoyed. These cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature and can be kept for up to a week. They also make wonderful gifts when packaged in a decorative tin or box.
With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich vanilla flavor, Vanillekipferl Vanilla Crescent Cookies are a holiday classic that will surely impress your family and friends. Whether you serve them at a festive gathering or enjoy them with a cup of tea by the fireplace, these cookies are a delicious way to celebrate the magic of the season. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let the sweet aroma of Christmas baking fill your home with love and joy. Happy baking!
