Vanilkové Kuličky Vanilla Balls

During the festive season in the Czech Republic, the scent of warm spices and sweet treats fills the air as families gather to bake traditional Christmas delights. One such beloved recipe is Vanilkové Kuličky, which translates to Vanilla Balls. These delightful sweet treats are perfect for sharing with loved ones or gifting during the holiday season. With a delicate vanilla flavor and a hint of cinnamon, these cookies are sure to become a new favorite in your repertoire of Christmas recipes.

Vanilkové Kuličky (Vanilla Balls)

Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ground walnuts
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar for rolling
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour, ground walnuts, and ground cinnamon to the bowl, mixing until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour until it is easy to handle.
5. Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter, and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart.
6. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are just starting to turn golden brown on the bottom.
7. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.
8. While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them in the remaining 1/2 cup of powdered sugar until they are coated on all sides. This will give them a beautiful snowy appearance.
9. Allow the cookies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. These Vanilla Balls are best enjoyed with a cup of hot chocolate or a glass of mulled wine.

Vanilkové Kuličky are a delightful addition to any Christmas cookie platter, with their melt-in-your-mouth texture and delicate vanilla flavor. These cookies also make wonderful homemade gifts for friends and family during the holiday season. So, gather your loved ones, turn on some festive music, and enjoy the cozy warmth of the kitchen as you bake up a batch of these delicious Vanilla Balls. Happy baking and happy holidays!