Christmas in the Czech Republic is a time of joy and rich traditions, especially in the realm of baking delightful treats that evoke warmth and festive cheer. One such beloved recipe that graces Czech households during the holiday season is “Kokosové Polštářky” – Coconut Pillows. These heavenly delights are tender, coconut-filled pastries that melt in your mouth, leaving behind a sweet and nutty flavor that is simply irresistible. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a thoughtful gift, these Coconut Pillows are sure to become a cherished addition to your Christmas baking repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 cups desiccated coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add one egg at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the desiccated coconut and granulated sugar.
6. Take a small portion of the dough and flatten it in your palm. Place a spoonful of the coconut mixture in the center of the dough.
7. Fold the dough over the coconut filling, shaping it into a pillow-like form. Seal the edges well to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking.
8. Transfer the Coconut Pillows to the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
9. Beat the remaining egg in a small bowl and brush the tops of the Coconut Pillows with the egg wash for a golden finish.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Allow the Coconut Pillows to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, these delectable Coconut Pillows are ready to be enjoyed with a cup of hot cocoa or a festive tea while basking in the holiday spirit.
These Kokosové Polštářky – Coconut Pillows are a delightful addition to your Christmas baking repertoire, exuding the essence of a cozy and joyful holiday season. Share them with family and friends or package them up as a thoughtful gift to spread the warmth and sweetness of the holidays. Enjoy the process of creating these tender, coconut-filled pastries that are bound to become a beloved tradition in your home.
