Introduction:
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the festive and cozy Christmas atmosphere of the Czech Republic with this delightful recipe for Medové Hvězdičky, or Honey Stars. These traditional Czech Christmas cookies are truly a treat for the senses, with their warm flavors and delicate textures. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or as a thoughtful gift, these Honey Stars are sure to become a holiday favorite in your home. Let’s dive into the sweet world of Czech Christmas baking!
Medové Hvězdičky Honey Stars
Ingredients:
– 1 cup honey
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, and butter. Place the pan over medium heat and stir occasionally until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs together. Slowly pour in the warm honey mixture, stirring continuously until well combined.
3. Add in the ground cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. Mix until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour and baking soda. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring to form a sticky dough.
5. Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use star-shaped cookie cutters to cut out cookies and transfer them to the prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake as the cookies should remain soft.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the Honey Stars with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
Enjoy these Medové Hvězdičky Honey Stars with a cup of hot cocoa or as a sweet addition to your Christmas cookie platter. Share the joy of Czech holiday traditions with friends and family, and savor the warm flavors of the season in every bite. Happy baking and Merry Christmas!
