Welcoming the holiday season with the aroma of freshly baked treats is a cherished tradition in many households. Today, let’s explore a delightful German Christmas baking recipe that will fill your home with the scent of warming spices and toasted nuts. “Nuss Schneebälle” or Nut Snowballs are not only a delicious treat but also a delightful addition to your festive table. These delicate, nutty pastries are a joy to make and share with loved ones during this special time of year.
**Nuss Schneebälle Nut Snowballs**
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup of confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
– 2 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup of finely chopped pecans or walnuts
– Additional confectioners’ sugar for coating
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix well to combine.
3. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
4. Fold in the finely chopped nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
5. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Taking small portions of the dough, roll it into 1-inch balls using the palms of your hands and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart.
7. Bake the nut snowballs in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are just beginning to turn golden brown.
8. Remove the snowballs from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
9. While still warm, gently roll each nut snowball in additional confectioners’ sugar until fully coated, giving them their snowy appearance.
10. Transfer the coated nut snowballs to a wire rack to cool completely before serving or storing in an airtight container.
These delightful Nuss Schneebälle Nut Snowballs are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a pleasure for the eyes, resembling miniature snow-covered delights. Their rich, buttery flavor combined with the crunch of the nuts makes them a perfect accompaniment to a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine on a cozy winter evening. Additionally, these nut snowballs make a lovely homemade gift for friends and family, wrapped in a festive box or tin.
Whether you’re looking to add a new holiday baking tradition to your repertoire or simply seeking a cozy afternoon activity, these Nut Snowballs are sure to warm your heart and home with the spirit of the season. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create some sweet memories with this delightful German Christmas baking recipe.
