Step into the holiday spirit with a delightful German Christmas baking recipe that will fill your home with the festive aroma of spices and sweetness. Weihnachtliche Punschtaler, also known as Christmas Punch Coins, are traditional treats that are perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in by the fireside with a warm cup of tea. These delicious cookies are a true reflection of the joy and warmth of the holiday season, with their rich flavors and inviting texture.
Weihnachtliche Punschtaler Christmas Punch Coins
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup ground almonds
– 1/2 cup candied cherries, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup rum
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, soak the raisins in rum for at least 30 minutes to allow them to plump up and absorb the flavor.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, ground almonds, candied cherries, and the soaked raisins (drained from the rum). Mix well.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms.
7. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter to cut out individual cookies.
8. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, dust the Weihnachtliche Punschtaler Christmas Punch Coins with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
These delectable Christmas Punch Coins are a must-have on your holiday baking list this season. Their combination of rich buttery flavors, the subtle crunch of ground almonds, and the sweetness of candied cherries and raisins soaked in rum make them a truly special treat. Whether you enjoy them with a steaming mug of tea or package them beautifully as gifts for friends and family, these cookies are sure to bring joy and delight to all who taste them. Embrace the festive cheer of the season and create lasting memories with this delicious and traditional German baking recipe.
