Mandelherzen Mit Schokoladenfüllung Almond Hearts With Chocolate Filling

Holiday baking always brings warmth and joy to the home, especially when it involves traditional recipes passed down through generations. One such delightful treat perfect for the festive season is “Mandelherzen Mit Schokoladenfüllung” or Almond Hearts With Chocolate Filling. These delicate cookies are not only a joy to bake but also a delight to savor with a cup of hot cocoa or tea by a cozy fireplace. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will surely add a touch of German Christmas charm to your kitchen.

**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup almond meal
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– Pinch of salt
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips

**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and prevent sticking.

2. **Prepare the Dough**: In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg and almond extract, mixing well until combined. Gradually add in the almond meal, flour, and a pinch of salt, combining everything into a smooth dough.

3. **Shape the Cookies**: Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Using heart-shaped cookie cutters, cut out pairs of identical shapes for each cookie, as these will be sandwiched together later. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

4. **Fill with Chocolate**: Melt the dark chocolate chips either in the microwave or using a double boiler until smooth. Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate onto the center of half of the heart-shaped cookies. Spread the chocolate slightly, leaving room around the edges for sandwiching.

5. **Assemble the Almond Hearts**: Carefully place the remaining heart-shaped cookies on top of the chocolate-filled ones, gently pressing down to create the sandwiched effect. Ensure that the edges are aligned for a neat finish.

6. **Bake to Perfection**: Place the assembled cookies in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are slightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-browning.

7. **Cool and Enjoy**: Once baked, remove the almond hearts from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. The chocolate filling will set as it cools, creating a deliciously indulgent center.

8. **Serve with Love**: These Almond Hearts With Chocolate Filling are best enjoyed with a steaming cup of your favorite hot beverage or as a sweet treat to share with loved ones during the festive season. Package them up in a pretty tin or gift box for a thoughtful homemade gift that will surely spread holiday cheer.

Celebrate the magic of Christmas with these aromatic and delightful Almond Hearts With Chocolate Filling that are sure to become a new favorite in your holiday baking repertoire. Enjoy the process of creating these sweet treats, and savor every bite of these mouthwatering cookies that embody the essence of a cozy and joyful Christmas season.