Czech Christmas traditions are as rich and beautiful as the country’s landscape. One delightful tradition is the baking of Skořicové Rohlíčky, or Cinnamon Crescents. These buttery, melt-in-your-mouth cookies are warmly spiced with cinnamon, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season. Let’s bring a taste of Czech holiday magic into your home with this easy and delicious recipe.
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup ground walnuts or pecans
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add the vanilla extract and mix well to combine.
3. Gradually stir in the flour until a smooth dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the ground nuts and cinnamon. This will be the filling for the crescents.
6. Take the chilled dough and break off small pieces, rolling each piece into a ball, then gently roll each ball into a rope about 3 inches long.
7. Flatten each rope slightly, then spoon a small amount of the nut and cinnamon mixture onto one end of the rope.
8. Carefully roll the dough, starting from the nut-filled end, to create a crescent shape.
9. Place the crescents on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them an inch apart.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
11. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, dust the Skořicové Rohlíčky generously with powdered sugar.
These Skořicové Rohlíčky are not only a delicious treat but also make a lovely homemade gift for friends and family during the holiday season. Their delicate crescent shape and aromatic cinnamon filling will surely evoke the spirit of a Czech Christmas in your home. Enjoy these cookies with a cup of warm tea or as a sweet ending to a festive meal. Happy baking!
