Holiday baking traditions are an essential part of spreading joy and creating cherished memories with loved ones. This Czech Republic Christmas baking recipe for Mandlové Rohlíčky Almond Crescents combines the warmth of the holiday season with the delicious aroma of almonds. These crescent-shaped cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends or for simply enjoying a cozy moment by the fireplace.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup of ground almonds
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup of powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon of almond extract
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– Additional powdered sugar for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and lining 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 the ground almonds, flour, almond extract, and salt to the butter mixture. Combine the ingredients until a smooth, firm dough forms. If the dough seems too sticky, you can add a little extra flour.
4. Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a ball, then shape it into a log about 3 inches long.
5. Carefully bend the log to form a crescent shape. Place the crescents on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
6. Bake the Mandlové Rohlíčky Almond Crescents in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until they are just starting to turn golden brown around the edges.
7. Remove the cookies 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.
8. Once the cookies are completely cooled, dust them generously with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
9. These almond crescents can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week, making them an excellent make-ahead treat for the holiday season.
Enjoy these delightful Mandlové Rohlíčky Almond Crescents with a warm cup of tea or coffee, or package them up in a festive tin to give as a thoughtful gift to friends and family. The rich almond flavor combined with the buttery texture of these cookies is sure to bring a touch of holiday magic to any gathering. Embrace the season of giving and baking with this delightful Czech Republic Christmas recipe that will surely become a new favorite in your holiday repertoire. Happy baking!
