Step into the cozy world of Austrian Christmas baking with our delightful Kirschkekse, or Cherry Cookies recipe. These buttery bites are perfect for festive gatherings, family cookie swaps, or simply enjoying by the fire with a cup of hot cocoa. The combination of rich buttery dough and sweet-tart cherries makes these cookies a true holiday delight. Let’s get baking!
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg yolk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cherry preserves
– Powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugar:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. **Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla:** Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well to combine.
4. **Incorporate Dry Ingredients:** Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
5. **Shape the Dough:** Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out each portion into a rectangular shape about 1/4-inch thick.
6. **Spread Cherry Preserves:** Spread cherry preserves evenly over one of the dough rectangles, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. **Assemble the Cookies:** Carefully place the second dough rectangle on top of the cherry layer. Press the edges to seal the two layers together.
8. **Cut the Cookies:** Using a sharp knife or cookie cutter, cut the dough into individual cookies. You can go for traditional shapes like rectangles or circles, or get creative with Christmas-themed cutters.
9. **Bake:** Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
10. **Cool and Dust:** Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
Enjoy these Kirschkekse Cherry Cookies with a steaming mug of glühwein or a cozy cup of tea. They also make a lovely gift when packaged in a festive tin or wrapped with a ribbon. Let the flavors of the holiday season come alive in your kitchen with this classic Austrian treat. Happy baking and Merry Christmas!
