During the festive season in the Czech Republic, a time-honored tradition is baking a wide array of delicious treats to celebrate Christmas. One such delightful confection is Vanilkové Polštářky, or Vanilla Pillows. These heavenly cookies are a joy to make and even more delightful to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee during the winter holidays. With their delicate texture and rich vanilla flavor, Vanilkové Polštářky are sure to become a staple in your Christmas baking repertoire. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get ready to create some culinary magic with this Czech Republic Christmas baking recipe.
Vanilkové Polštářky (Vanilla Pillows)
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add the vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture and beat until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Take small portions of the dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.
7. Using a fork, gently press down on each dough ball to create a crisscross pattern.
8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to turn golden.
9. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once the cookies have cooled, dust them generously with powdered sugar, giving them the appearance of delicate vanilla pillows.
11. Store the Vanilkové Polštářky in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, if they last that long without being devoured!
These Vanilkové Polštářky, or Vanilla Pillows, are a delightful addition to any Christmas cookie platter. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle vanilla flavor make them a hit with young and old alike. Whether you enjoy them with a warm cup of tea by the fire or gift them to friends and family, these Czech Republic Christmas treats are sure to spread joy and cheer.
So, gather your ingredients, turn on your favorite holiday tunes, and let the sweet aroma of vanilla fill your home as you bake up a batch of these delectable Vanilla Pillows. Enjoy the festive spirit and the warmth of the holiday season with every bite of these delightful cookies. Happy baking!
