Are you looking for a delightful Christmas baking recipe that will fill your home with the warm aroma of cocoa and spices? Look no further than this traditional Czech Republic holiday treat – Kakaové Cukroví, also known as Cocoa Cookies. These rich and indulgent cookies are perfect for festive gatherings, cozy evenings by the fire, or as heartfelt gifts for friends and family. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will bring a touch of European charm to your holiday season.
**Kakaové Cukroví Cocoa Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients:** In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. **Add Egg and Flavorings:** Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until smooth and well incorporated.
5. **Incorporate Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a smooth cookie dough forms.
6. **Shape the Cookies:** Roll tablespoon-sized portions of the dough into balls and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about an inch apart.
7. **Bake and Cool:** Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set. 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.
8. **Optional Dusting:** Once the cookies have cooled, you can dust them with confectioners’ sugar for a festive touch.
9. **Enjoy:** Serve these delightful Kakaové Cukroví Cocoa Cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or your favorite holiday beverage. They also make wonderful gifts when packaged in a pretty tin or bag.
These Czech-inspired Cocoa Cookies are sure to become a new holiday favorite in your home. Their rich chocolate flavor combined with hints of cinnamon and vanilla create a truly irresistible treat that pairs perfectly with the festive season. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a cozy sweet indulgence, these cookies are a must-try. Bake up a batch of Kakaové Cukroví and enjoy the magic of Christmas in every bite!
