Are you looking to add a touch of European charm to your baking repertoire? Look no further than the delightful Vanillekipferl, a traditional Austrian pastry perfect for cozying up with a cup of tea or coffee. These buttery and indulgent crescent-shaped cookies are infused with fragrant vanilla and coated in a dusting of powdered sugar. Let’s dive into the world of Vanillekipferl and bring a taste of Vienna to your home.
Vanillekipferl
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 and 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup ground almonds or hazelnuts
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Additional powdered sugar for coating
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Dough:**
* In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
* Add the vanilla extract and mix until well combined.
* Gradually add the flour and ground almonds or hazelnuts to the mixture, stirring until a smooth and cohesive dough forms.
2. **Shape the Cookies:**
* Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
* Take a small portion of the dough at a time and roll it into a ball. Then, gently roll the ball into a rope about 3 inches long.
* Curve the dough rope to form a crescent shape, gently pinching the ends to taper them. Repeat with the remaining dough.
3. **Bake the Vanillekipferl:**
* Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each one.
* Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
* Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
4. **Coat in Powdered Sugar:**
* While the cookies are still warm, carefully roll them in powdered sugar to coat evenly.
* Place the sugared cookies on a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, give them another light dusting of powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
5. **Serve and Enjoy:**
* Your homemade Vanillekipferl are now ready to be enjoyed! These delicate cookies are the perfect treat to accompany a warm beverage during a chilly evening or to sweeten up a festive gathering.
* Store any leftover Vanillekipferl in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. These cookies also freeze well if you want to enjoy them later.
Sink your teeth into the irresistible melt-in-your-mouth goodness of these Vanillekipferl cookies and transport yourself to a cozy European café experience. Share these delectable treats with loved ones or savor them as a well-deserved self-indulgence. With their delicate vanilla flavor and nutty undertones, these crescent-shaped delights are sure to become a new favorite in your baking repertoire.
