Mohnkipferl Poppy Seed Crescents

During the holiday season, German Christmas baking traditions bring warmth and coziness to homes around the world. One such delightful treat is the Mohnkipferl, also known as Poppy Seed Crescents. These crescent-shaped cookies are light, nutty, and perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or coffee by the fireplace. The subtle flavor of poppy seeds combined with the sweetness of the cookie dough creates a wonderful balance that will surely become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire.

Title: Mohnkipferl Poppy Seed Crescents

Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup ground poppy seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
– Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract and mix well to incorporate.
4. Gradually add the flour, ground poppy seeds, and salt to the mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
5. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each portion into a rope about 1/2 inch thick.
6. Cut each rope into smaller pieces, about 2 inches long. Roll each piece into a crescent shape and place it on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a little apart.
7. Bake the Mohnkipferl in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are just starting to turn golden on the edges.
8. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
9. While still warm, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack. Let them cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the Mohnkipferl with powdered sugar for a lovely finish.

Enjoy these delightful poppy seed crescents with your loved ones during the festive season. The subtle crunch of the poppy seeds, combined with the tender buttery dough, creates a perfect harmony of flavors. These Mohnkipferl make a wonderful addition to any holiday cookie platter, and their unique shape adds a touch of elegance to your table.

We hope this recipe brings a taste of German Christmas tradition into your home and fills it with the joyful spirit of the season. Happy baking and happy holidays!