The holiday season is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the warm scents and cozy ambiance of baking in the kitchen. Czech Republic Christmas traditions often revolve around delicious baked goods that bring families together. Today, we’re going to introduce you to a delightful Czech Christmas baking recipe that will fill your home with the sweet aroma of caramel and spice. Get ready to whip up a batch of Karamelové Hvězdy, which translates to Caramel Stars. These delectable cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your holiday baking repertoire.
Karamelové Hvězdy Caramel Stars
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup caramel candies, unwrapped
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookies and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
5. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. While the cookies are cooling, prepare the caramel glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the caramel candies with the heavy cream over low heat, stirring constantly until smooth and well combined.
7. Once the cookies are completely cooled, drizzle the caramel glaze over the top of each cookie. Allow the glaze to set for about 15 minutes.
8. To finish, dust the Karamelové Hvězdy Caramel Stars with powdered sugar for a snowy effect before serving. Enjoy these delightful treats with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine for the ultimate cozy Christmas experience.
These Karamelové Hvězdy Caramel Stars are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy by the fireplace. Their buttery texture, hint of caramel, and festive shape make them a true Christmas delight. Gather your loved ones around and create cherished memories while savoring these delicious cookies. Happy baking and Merry Christmas!
