Christmas is a time for indulging in sweet treats, and what better way to spread holiday cheer than with homemade German Christmas cookies? One of the most beloved recipes is **Mandelkipferl Mit Honigfüllung** – Almond Crescents With Honey Filling. These delicate almond crescents are truly a delight for the senses – with a fragrant almond filling and a touch of honey sweetness. Let’s dive into this festive recipe that will fill your home with the warm aroma of baking spices and holiday joy.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup ground almonds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg yolk
– 1/2 tsp almond extract
– Pinch of salt
– Honey for filling
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure that your almond crescents bake evenly without sticking.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds, flour, granulated sugar, softened butter, egg yolk, almond extract, and a pinch of salt. Use your hands to mix the ingredients until a smooth dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, you can add a little more butter to achieve the right consistency.
3. Once the dough is ready, take small portions and roll them into 3-inch long ropes. Gently shape each rope into a crescent, creating a slight curve in the center. Place the crescents on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie to allow for spreading during baking.
4. Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to create a small indentation in the center of each crescent. Fill the indentation with a small amount of honey, allowing it to gently seep into the dough for a sweet surprise when you take a bite.
5. Bake the almond crescents in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they turn a light golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning, as almond crescents can burn quickly.
6. Once baked, let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Be gentle when handling the warm cookies, as they may be fragile due to their delicate almond texture.
7. To finish, dust the almond crescents with a generous sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch and an extra hint of sweetness. The powdered sugar will not only enhance the appearance of the crescents but also add a delightful melt-in-your-mouth quality.
These **Mandelkipferl Mit Honigfüllung** – Almond Crescents With Honey Filling are perfect for sharing with loved ones during the holidays or for treating yourself to a cozy moment of indulgence. Their aromatic almond flavor and luscious honey filling make them a standout addition to any Christmas cookie platter. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the magic of baking fill your home with warmth and joy this holiday season. Happy baking!
