When the holiday season comes around, there’s nothing quite like the warm and cozy atmosphere of a beautifully decorated home filled with the scent of freshly baked treats. One delightful Danish Christmas tradition that always brings joy is making Mandelkranse, also known as Almond Rings. These delicate almond-flavored cookies are not only a delicious sweet treat but also a lovely addition to your festive spread. With their charming ring shape and crunchy texture, Mandelkranse perfectly capture the spirit of the season.
### Mandelkranse Almond Rings
#### Ingredients:
– 1 cup of almond flour
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract
– 1 egg white
– 1/2 cup of sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon of water
– Powdered sugar (for dusting)
#### Instructions:
1. **Preheat the oven**: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Prepare the dough**: In a mixing bowl, combine the almond flour, granulated sugar, salt, almond extract, and egg white. Mix everything together until a smooth dough forms.
3. **Shape the cookies**: Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Then, gently shape each ball into a ring by flattening it slightly and forming a hole in the center.
4. **Coat with almonds**: In a small bowl, mix the sliced almonds with water to slightly moisten them. Roll each cookie ring in the almond mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the almonds stick to the dough.
5. **Bake the Mandelkranse**: Place the almond rings on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for expansion. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.
6. **Cool and finish**: Once cooked, remove the Mandelkranse from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Once they have cooled completely, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
7. **Serve and enjoy**: Arrange your Mandelkranse on a decorative plate or package them in a pretty tin for gifting. These delightful almond rings pair perfectly with a cup of warm spiced tea or coffee, making them a delightful treat to share with loved ones during the holiday season.
The joy of baking Mandelkranse Almond Rings goes beyond the kitchen; it’s about creating cherished memories and traditions that bring family and friends together. So, this holiday season, adorn your home with these delightful Danish cookies and savor the warmth and sweetness they bring to your celebrations. May your home be filled with the love and joy of the season as you share these delicious treats with those you hold dear.
