Marzipankekse Marzipan Cookies

There’s something truly magical about the festive season in Austria, where the air is filled with the aromas of cinnamon, cloves, and warm baked goods. One beloved tradition that graces Austrian holiday tables is the making of Marzipankekse, delightful Marzipan Cookies that are as beautiful as they are delicious. These little treats are a perfect blend of buttery dough and sweet almond marzipan, making them a must-have for any Christmas celebration. Let’s dive into the recipe and create our own batch of these delightful cookies.

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp almond extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 8 oz marzipan, grated
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting

Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the almond extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms.
4. Gently fold in the grated marzipan until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Cover the dough and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out your desired shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are just golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once the cookies are completely cooled, dust them with confectioners’ sugar for a finishing touch.

Enjoy these Marzipankekse with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced mulled wine for the ultimate cozy holiday experience. They make a lovely homemade gift or a delightful addition to any cookie swap. The sweet almond flavor of the marzipan and the buttery richness of the cookie dough create a harmonious blend that is sure to impress your family and friends.

So, this holiday season, bring a taste of Austrian tradition into your home with these delightful Marzipan Cookies. With their irresistible flavor and charming appearance, they are sure to become a new favorite in your Christmas baking repertoire. Happy baking, and may your home be filled with joy, laughter, and the comforting scent of freshly baked treats.