Indulge in the delicious traditions of German Christmas baking with the irresistible Schokoladenkränze, also known as Chocolate Wreaths. These delightful treats are a perfect addition to your holiday spread, combining rich chocolate flavors with a beautiful, festive shape that will impress all your guests.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 tbsp milk
– 1/4 cup sprinkles or crushed candy canes
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture, and continue mixing until smooth and creamy.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
6. Shape the dough into a ball, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up.
7. Once chilled, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick.
8. Using a round cookie cutter or glass, cut out circles from the dough. Then use a smaller cutter to create a hole in the center of each circle to form the wreath shape.
9. Place the wreaths on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until set.
10. Allow the wreaths to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. In a small bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and milk to create a smooth glaze.
12. Dip the top of each cooled wreath into the glaze, allowing the excess to drip off, and return them to the wire rack.
13. Before the glaze sets, sprinkle some festive decorations like sprinkles or crushed candy canes on top of each wreath.
14. Let the glaze harden completely before serving or storing in an airtight container.
Enjoy the delightful combination of chocolate and holiday cheer with these lovely Schokoladenkränze. Whether you share them with loved ones or keep them all to yourself (we won’t judge!), these Chocolate Wreaths are sure to become a new favorite in your Christmas baking repertoire. Happy baking and happy holidays!
