Nothing says Christmas quite like the aroma of freshly baked treats wafting through the house. Orangenplätzchen Mit Nussfüllung, translated as Orange Cookies with Nut Filling, is a delightful German Christmas baking recipe that combines the zesty flavor of oranges with the richness of nut filling. These cookies are perfect for serving at holiday gatherings or packaging up as thoughtful gifts for loved ones. Let’s dive into the steps of making these festive treats.
Orangenplätzchen Mit Nussfüllung (Orange Cookies With Nut Filling)
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Zest of 2 oranges
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or hazelnuts work well)
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is well incorporated before adding the next.
3. Add the orange zest and vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring until evenly combined and fragrant.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. The dough should be firm but not sticky. If it feels too wet, add a little more flour.
5. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Wrap each portion in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Remove one portion of the dough from the fridge and place it on a floured surface. Roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness.
8. Using a round cookie cutter, cut out circles of dough and place them on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
9. In a small bowl, mix together the chopped nuts with a tablespoon of sugar.
10. Place a small amount of the nut mixture in the center of half of the rolled-out circles, leaving a border around the edges.
11. Top each filled circle with another plain circle of dough, gently pressing the edges together to seal in the nut filling.
12. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
13. Remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
14. Once the cookies are completely cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
These Orange Cookies with Nut Filling are a beautiful addition to any holiday cookie platter. Their delicate citrus flavor combined with the nutty richness of the filling makes them a standout treat that will impress your guests.
Enjoy the process of baking these German-inspired delights and savor the cozy, festive atmosphere they bring to your home during the holiday season. Serve them alongside a cup of hot cocoa or a steaming mug of mulled wine for the perfect winter treat. Happy baking!
