During the festive season in the Czech Republic, the air is filled with the sweet aroma of baking as families come together to prepare traditional Christmas sweets. One such beloved treat is the Vanilkové Rohlíčky, or Vanilla Crescent Cookies. These delicate crescent-shaped cookies are a staple on Czech holiday dessert tables, enjoyed by young and old alike. With their buttery texture and delightful hint of vanilla, they are the perfect accompaniment to a cup of hot cocoa or a cozy evening by the fireplace.
Vanilkové Rohlíčky – Vanilla Crescent Cookies
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2/3 cup powdered sugar
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup ground walnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition, until a smooth dough forms.
3. Stir in the ground walnuts and vanilla extract, combining thoroughly to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Taking a small amount of dough at a time, roll it into a rope shape on a lightly floured surface. Cut the rope into smaller pieces, each about 2 inches long.
6. Shape each piece into a crescent, gently bending the ends towards each other to create the classic crescent shape.
7. Place the formed cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them a few inches apart to allow for spreading during baking.
8. Bake the Vanilkové Rohlíčky in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges.
9. 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.
10. Once the cookies have cooled, you can dust them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive finish before serving.
These delightful Vanilla Crescent Cookies are not only a delicious holiday treat but also make a charming gift for friends and family. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich buttery flavor are sure to bring joy to your home this Christmas season. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the warmth and sweetness of these traditional Czech delights. Happy baking!
