Christmas is a time for traditions, family gatherings, and, of course, delicious homemade treats. In the Czech Republic, the holiday season is especially cherished, with baking playing a central role in the festivities. One sweet and beloved Christmas baking recipe is the čokoládové Srdíčka, or Chocolate Hearts. These delightful treats are not only perfect for holiday celebrations but also make charming gifts for loved ones. Let’s dive into the joy of baking these Czech chocolate delights right in your own kitchen.
**čokoládové Srdíčka – Chocolate Hearts**
**Ingredients:**
– 200g dark chocolate, chopped
– 100g unsalted butter, softened
– 150g granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 200g all-purpose flour
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– Pinch of salt
– Heart-shaped cookie cutter
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat** your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Melt** the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir occasionally until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. **In** a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Add** the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. **Gradually** fold in the melted chocolate into the butter-sugar mixture until well combined.
6. **Sift** the flour, baking powder, and salt into the bowl with the chocolate mixture. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet until a soft dough forms.
7. **Chill** the dough in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to firm up.
8. **On** a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to cut out heart shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
9. **Bake** the Chocolate Hearts in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until they start to firm up but are still slightly soft in the middle.
10. **Remove** from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. **Once** cooled, dust the Chocolate Hearts with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
12. **Store** these delightful treats in an airtight container at room temperature, and watch them disappear as quickly as they were made.
Whether you enjoy these Chocolate Hearts with a cup of hot cocoa on a cozy evening or gift them to friends and family, they are sure to spread joy and sweetness this holiday season. Embrace the Czech tradition of baking with love and make these delightful treats a staple in your Christmas celebrations. Happy baking!
