Get ready to add a touch of German tradition to your holiday baking with our delightful Weihnachtsplätzchen Christmas Cookies recipe. These cookies are a staple during the festive season in Germany, loved for their warm spices and comforting flavors that evoke the spirit of Christmas. Whether you’re planning a cookie exchange or simply want to fill your home with the sweet aromas of the holidays, these Weihnachtsplätzchen are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
**Weihnachtsplätzchen Christmas Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup finely chopped almonds
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture, beating until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
5. Fold in the chopped almonds until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disk. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
8. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to a 1/4-inch thickness. Use festive cookie cutters to cut out shapes and transfer them to the prepared baking sheet.
9. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
10. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once the cookies have cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for a snowy finish.
These Weihnachtsplätzchen Christmas Cookies are not only delicious but also a delightful activity to share with loved ones during the holiday season. Their classic flavors and festive appearance make them a perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace or to package as heartfelt gifts for friends and neighbors. So, gather your ingredients, put on your favorite holiday tunes, and let the joy of baking fill your home with the scent of Christmas. Wishing you a cozy and delicious holiday season!
