Zimtmandel Kipferl, or Cinnamon Almond Crescents, are a delectable German Christmas baking tradition. These crescent-shaped cookies are perfect for the holiday season, combining the warm flavors of cinnamon and fragrant almonds. With a soft, buttery texture that simply melts in your mouth, Zimtmandel Kipferl is a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup ground almonds
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Additional powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until light and fluffy.
2. Add the ground almonds, flour, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Mix well until the dough comes together and forms a smooth ball.
3. Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to 1 hour to firm up.
4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Take small portions of the chilled dough and roll them into ropes about 3 inches long. Shape each rope into a crescent by gently bending the ends towards each other to form a half-moon shape.
6. Place the crescents on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie, as they will expand slightly during baking.
7. Bake the Zimtmandel Kipferl in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn a light golden brown around the edges.
8. 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.
9. Once cooled, dust the Zimtmandel Kipferl with a generous amount of powdered sugar for that final touch.
These delightful Cinnamon Almond Crescents are sure to be a hit at any Christmas gathering or holiday cookie exchange. The warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and almonds perfectly encapsulate the festive spirit of the season. Whether enjoyed with your morning coffee or as an after-dinner treat, these cookies will bring a touch of German holiday charm to your home. Experience the joy of baking and sharing these heavenly Zimtmandel Kipferl with your loved ones this holiday season!
