Glass Biscuits

Glass Cookies for the Christmas Tree

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Chilling time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 10-12 minutes
Total time: 50-52 minutes
Number of servings: 24 cookies

Introduction
The holidays are approaching, and the Christmas atmosphere invites us to be inspired by traditions. Glass cookies, with their shiny designs and vibrant colors, find their perfect place on the Christmas tree, not just as decorations but also as tasty treats. These cookies are not only a visual delight but also a true culinary adventure. Making them is simple and fun, perfect for sharing with loved ones. So put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and let’s get started!

Ingredients
- 350 g flour (preferably half Manitoba flour and half 00 flour for optimal texture)
- 125 g butter (at room temperature for easier incorporation)
- 125 g sugar (white sugar is ideal, but you can experiment with brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 1 large egg (to bind the ingredients)
- Zest of ½ lemon (for a touch of freshness)
- ½ packet of baking powder (to help the cookies rise)
- A pinch of salt (to balance the sweetness)
- Hard candies (in various colors to create the glass effect)

Preparation
1. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix the dry ingredients well to combine. Add the diced butter and, using your fingertips, incorporate the butter into the flour until you achieve a texture similar to breadcrumbs. This technique will help create delicate and delicious cookies.

2. Adding the egg and flavor
Make a well in the center of the mixture and add the egg and lemon zest. Mix with a spatula or your hands until the dough becomes homogeneous. It is important not to knead it too much to avoid activating the gluten, which could make the cookies tougher.

3. Resting the dough
Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes. This step is essential as it allows the gluten to relax, making the cookies easier to work with.

4. Preparing the candies
While the dough is cooling, crush the candies with a meat mallet or in a thin plastic bag. Ensure the candies are broken into small pieces, but not too fine, to create the glass effect.

5. Shaping the cookies
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and sprinkle a surface with flour. Roll out the dough to about 5 mm thickness. Using a large star-shaped cutter, cut out shapes and transfer them to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Then, use a smaller cutter to cut out the center of each star, creating a "window" for the candies.

6. Adding the candies
Fill each star with the broken candy pieces, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

7. Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden and the candies in the center melt and bubble slightly. It’s important to keep an eye on the cookies, as each oven is different.

8. Cooling
Let the cookies cool on the tray for a few minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial as the cookies will come off easier and won’t break.

9. Adding strings
Once the cookies are completely cool, use a toothpick to make a small hole in the top of each star. Thread a thin string or thread through so you can hang them on the Christmas tree.

10. Serving and storing
These cookies are usually better the next day when the lemon flavor intensifies. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Nutritional benefits
These glass cookies are not only a visual treat but also a sweet option that, although containing sugar and butter, can be enjoyed in moderation. The addition of lemon zest brings a splash of vitamin C, and using high-quality flour contributes to optimal texture. Try to use candies made from natural ingredients for a healthier final product.

Possible variations
To customize the cookies, you can try various flavors and colors. For example, instead of lemon zest, you could use orange zest or vanilla extract. Additionally, candies can be replaced with melted chocolate or caramel, creating a new taste experience.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole wheat or gluten-free flour, but the texture of the cookies will change.

2. What can I pair these cookies with?
They pair wonderfully with winter tea, hot cocoa, or mulled wine.

3. How long do the cookies last?
If stored properly, the cookies can last up to 2 weeks.

4. Can I use other shapes?
Absolutely! Any shape you like can be used, just make sure to make a hole to hang them.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to enjoy making these glass cookies and bring the magic of Christmas into your home. Happy holidays!