Mice with hazelnuts

Hazelnut Mice – A Funny and Delicious Treat

If you're looking for a simple recipe with a special charm, then hazelnut mice are the perfect choice! These amusing cookies not only look good, but they are also incredibly tasty. With a soft and fragrant dough filled with hazelnuts or nuts, this recipe will bring a smile to anyone who enjoys them. Plus, they are perfect to make with little ones, turning cooking into a fun and creative activity.

General Information

- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
- Number of servings: Approximately 20 mice

Ingredients

- 200 g sugar
- 200 g finely chopped hazelnuts or nuts
- 400 g margarine (or lard, if you prefer)
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (30 g is ideal, but you can reduce to 20 g for a less risen consistency)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 3 whole eggs
- Flour as needed (approximately 600-700 g)
- 1 cup of milk (200 ml)

For decoration:

- Toothpicks for tails
- Cloves for eyes

The Story Behind the Recipe

Hazelnut mice are a recipe with deep roots in culinary tradition, often associated with holidays or special occasions. These cookies are not just a delicacy; they evoke childhood memories when cooking was a family activity. Whether you make them for a party, to share with loved ones, or simply to treat yourself, hazelnut mice will always bring a smile.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Dough
In a large bowl, start by mixing warm milk with sugar, ensuring it dissolves completely. Add the yeast and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This is an essential step that will help the cookies rise.

2. Adding the Ingredients
Add the margarine (or lard) at room temperature, the eggs, and a pinch of salt. Use a wooden spoon or a mixer to combine the ingredients, obtaining a homogeneous mixture.

3. Incorporating the Flour
Gradually add the flour, mixing constantly. The dough should be soft and elastic, similar to pie dough. If you find the dough too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

4. Chilling the Dough
Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the dough chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes. This step will help firm up the dough, making it easier to shape.

5. Shaping the Mice
Once the dough has chilled, take it out of the refrigerator and start forming small pieces of dough. Shape them into mice, ensuring each mouse has a distinctive shape. Use cloves to create the eyes and toothpicks for tails.

6. Baking
Place the mice on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them as they will expand during baking. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and bake the cookies for 20 minutes or until they turn golden.

7. Cooling and Serving
After taking them out of the oven, let them cool on a rack. You can serve them as is or decorate them with a little powdered sugar for a more festive look.

Tips and Useful Advice

- Choosing ingredients: Use fresh hazelnuts or nuts for an intense flavor. If you don't have hazelnuts on hand, you can also opt for almonds or pistachios, but make sure to chop them well.
- Variations: You can customize your mice by adding flavors like vanilla or cinnamon to the dough for a richer taste.
- Serving: This funny dessert can be enjoyed alongside tea or fresh lemonade. They can be transformed into a perfect dessert for a party or a gathering with friends.
- Storage: Hazelnut mice keep well in an airtight container. You can prepare them a few days in advance before serving.

Nutritional Benefits

These cookies are not only delicious but also nutritious, thanks to the hazelnuts which provide healthy proteins and beneficial fats. Moderate consumption can contribute to a balanced diet. However, since they contain sugar and fats, it’s best to enjoy them in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine is an excellent alternative and can make the cookies softer.

2. How can I make them less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe, but keep in mind that this may affect the final texture.

3. Is it necessary to use yeast?
Yeast helps achieve a fluffy texture, but if you prefer a denser version, you can omit it.

Conclusion

Hazelnut mice are more than just a simple dessert; they are a way to bring joy and creativity into the kitchen. With every mouse you shape, you get closer to beautiful memories and unforgettable moments. So grab a bowl, gather the ingredients, and enjoy the cooking process! These cookies won’t disappoint and are sure to become favorites among family and friends. Happy cooking!