Nothing says Christmas quite like the aroma of freshly baked treats filling your home. This Austrian Christmas baking recipe for Schokostangen Chocolate Sticks is a delightful addition to your holiday repertoire. These delicious chocolate sticks are perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee, or for gifting to friends and family. The combination of buttery pastry and rich chocolate makes them irresistible to all ages. Let’s dive into the recipe for these delightful homemade treats!
**Schokostangen Chocolate Sticks**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/3 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts or sprinkles (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Pour in the milk and vanilla extract, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too dry, add a little more milk, a teaspoon at a time.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm) thick.
5. Melt the chocolate chips with the vegetable oil in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every 30 seconds until smooth.
6. Spread the melted chocolate evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts or colorful sprinkles on top of the chocolate.
8. Starting at one end, carefully roll the dough into a log. Gently press to seal the seam.
9. Using a sharp knife, slice the log into even pieces, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide.
10. Place the chocolate sticks onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each stick.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown.
12. Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack before serving.
These Schokostangen Chocolate Sticks are a wonderful treat to make for holiday gatherings, or simply to enjoy at home with your loved ones. The combination of flaky pastry and rich chocolate makes them a festive and indulgent dessert that will surely be a hit. So, why not try your hand at this delicious Austrian Christmas baking recipe this holiday season? Enjoy the process of baking and sharing these scrumptious goodies with those you hold dear. Happy baking!
