Ingredients and Weight:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Confectioners' sugar for dusting (optional)
Preparation Time:
- Total Preparation Time: 2 hours (including resting time)
- Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter.
- Add eggs one by one, beating well after each addition.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a smooth dough is formed.
- Cover the dough and let it rest in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (0.64 cm).
- Cut out cookies using a cookie cutter or shape them into desired shapes.
- Place cookies on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack.
- Dust with confectioners' sugar, if desired.
Nutritional Information: (Per Serving)
- Calories: Approx. 250-300 (depending on the size of cookies)
- Fat: Approx. 12g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 35g
- Protein: Approx. 4g
Dish Characteristics:
- The cookies are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a rich vanilla flavor.
- The confectioners' sugar gives them a sweet and crunchy exterior, complementing their soft texture.
- These cookies are perfect for the Christmas season due to their festive shape and flavor.
User Comments:
- "These cookies are amazing! The flavor is incredible and they are so easy to make."
- "These German Christmas cookies are a great addition to our festive meals. The texture is perfect and they are not too sweet."
- "I love the combination of flavors in these cookies. The vanilla and butter create a delicious balance."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Ensure that the butter is softened to room temperature before starting the recipe to ensure a smooth mixture.
- Do not over-bake the cookies, as they will become hard and crispy. Check them after 20 minutes and adjust the baking time accordingly.
- For best results, use fresh ingredients like eggs and butter that are not expired or past their best-before date.
