When it comes to Christmas baking traditions, Austria shines with its rich heritage of delightful and delectable treats. From spicy gingerbread to buttery shortbread cookies, Austrian Christmas baking is a feast for the senses. Among the countless recipes worth exploring, one stands out for its simplicity and irresistible flavor – Mürbeteigtaler Shortbread Coins.
Mürbeteigtaler cookies are delicate shortbread treats that melt in your mouth, beautifully complementing a cup of hot cocoa or a festive glass of mulled wine. The buttery richness and hint of sweetness make them a perfect addition to any holiday dessert platter. With just a handful of ingredients and a touch of patience, you can recreate the magic of Austrian Christmas baking right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This may take a few minutes, but the mixture should be smooth and creamy.
2. Add the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and blend well. The vanilla essence will enhance the aroma and flavor of the shortbread coins, giving them that irresistible holiday touch.
3. Sift the flour and salt together in a separate bowl. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, stirring gently until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this could result in tough cookies.
4. Shape the dough into a ball and wrap it in plastic wrap. Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow it to firm up. This step is crucial for easy handling and shaping of the shortbread coins.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Remove the chilled dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick.
6. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out individual coins from the rolled-out dough. You can also get creative with different shapes if you have festive cookie cutters on hand. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
7. Bake the Mürbeteigtaler Shortbread Coins in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent overbaking, as shortbread cookies should remain pale in color.
8. Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust the tops with powdered sugar for a snowy finish before serving. These delightful shortbread coins are best enjoyed with a steaming cup of coffee or tea, surrounded by the warmth of the holiday season.
Mürbeteigtaler Shortbread Coins are a classic Austrian delight that encapsulates the essence of Christmas in every bite. Whether you gift them to loved ones or savor them with a peaceful moment of your own, these buttery treats are sure to bring joy and festive cheer to your home. Enjoy the magic of Austrian Christmas baking with this simple yet irresistible recipe!
