When it comes to Christmas baking, there’s something special about the warmth and coziness that fills the kitchen as the aromas of sweet treats waft through the air. Today, we’re bringing you a delightful German Christmas baking recipe that embodies the essence of the holiday season. These Haselnussplätzchen Hazelnut Cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your festive baking repertoire. These buttery cookies are infused with the rich flavor of toasted hazelnuts, making them the perfect indulgence for cozy evenings by the fireplace or as a heartfelt gift for loved ones.
Haselnussplätzchen Hazelnut Cookies
Ingredients:
– 1 cup hazelnuts, toasted and finely ground
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the hazelnuts for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Allow the hazelnuts to cool slightly before grinding them finely in a food processor.
3. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the vanilla extract and salt to the butter mixture, mixing well to combine.
5. Gradually incorporate the ground hazelnuts and flour into the wet ingredients, stirring until a smooth dough forms.
6. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
7. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are light golden brown.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the Haselnussplätzchen Hazelnut Cookies with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
These Haselnussplätzchen Hazelnut Cookies are a wonderful addition to your holiday baking traditions. Their delicate nuttiness and buttery texture make them a delightful accompaniment to a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine. Share these delectable treats with friends and family or package them in a pretty tin for a thoughtful homemade gift that will surely be appreciated. Enjoy the magic of Christmas baking with these irresistible hazelnut cookies – a true taste of the season!
