Getting into the festive spirit with holiday baking is such a delightful way to celebrate the season. Whether you celebrate Hanukkah or simply enjoy delicious treats, these Chocolate Hanukkah Stars are sure to bring a smile to your face. These cookies are not only delicious, but they are also fun to make with family and friends. The combination of rich chocolate and festive decorations makes them the perfect sweet treat for this special time of year.
**Chocolate Hanukkah Stars**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/3 cup chopped chocolate or chocolate chips
– Hanukkah-themed sprinkles or decorations
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Combine dry ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, and salt until well combined.
3. **Cream butter and sugar:** In a separate mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Add egg and vanilla:** Beat in the egg and vanilla extract until well incorporated.
5. **Incorporate dry ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms. Fold in the chopped chocolate or chocolate chips.
6. **Roll out the dough:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookies.
7. **Decorate the cookies:** Carefully transfer the cut-out cookies to the prepared baking sheet. Decorate the cookies with Hanukkah-themed sprinkles or decorations before baking.
8. **Bake the cookies:** Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. **Enjoy your Chocolate Hanukkah Stars:** Once the cookies are completely cooled, plate them up on a festive tray and enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa or your favorite holiday beverage. Share these delicious treats with your loved ones and spread the joy of the season.
These Chocolate Hanukkah Stars are not only a sweet addition to your holiday baking repertoire but also a wonderful way to celebrate the traditions of Hanukkah. Get creative with the decorations and make each cookie uniquely yours. The rich chocolate flavor combined with the fun shapes and decorations are sure to make these cookies a hit at any holiday gathering. Embrace the holiday spirit and enjoy baking these delightful treats with your loved ones. Happy Hanukkah and happy baking!
