Mandelplätzchen Almond Cookies

Are you looking to add a touch of German holiday tradition to your Christmas baking repertoire this year? Look no further than these delightful Mandelplätzchen Almond Cookies. Bursting with the warm, nutty flavors of almonds, these cookies are a staple in German households during the festive season, and they are sure to become a favorite in your home too. Let’s dive into the recipe and spread some Christmas cheer with the wonderful aroma of freshly baked almond cookies.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup ground almonds
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Sliced almonds for topping
– Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure that the cookies bake evenly and prevent sticking.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is crucial in creating that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture for the cookies.

3. Add the almond extract to the butter mixture and mix well. The almond extract will enhance the nutty flavor of the cookies and infuse them with a delightful aroma.

4. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. The ground almonds will provide a rich, nutty taste and a lovely crunch to the cookies.

5. Once the dough comes together, it’s time to shape the cookies. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out various shapes. Traditional shapes like stars, hearts, or Christmas trees work wonderfully for these festive cookies.

6. Carefully transfer the cut-out cookies to the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each cookie. Press a few sliced almonds gently onto the top of each cookie to add a beautiful crunch and visual appeal.

7. Bake the Mandelplätzchen Almond Cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Keep a close eye on them as they bake to ensure they don’t overcook.

8. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the cookies with powdered sugar for a snowy finish that enhances their festive charm.

These Mandelplätzchen Almond Cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones during cozy gatherings or gifting in festive cookie tins. Their delightful almond flavor and delicate texture make them a joy to bake and enjoy throughout the holiday season. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of freshly baked almond cookies fill your home with the spirit of Christmas. Happy baking!