Nut cookies

Walnut Cookies: The Magic of the Holidays in Every Bite

Total preparation time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 10-15 minutes
Number of servings: 20-25 cookies

Who doesn't love the aroma of freshly baked cookies that fills the house during the holidays? Walnut cookies are a true symbol of comfort and joy, bringing a touch of nostalgia and tradition in every bite. These cookies are perfect to enjoy alongside a cup of tea or coffee, but also make a lovely gift for loved ones, especially during Christmas. Before we get started, let's discover together the secrets of this delicious recipe!

Necessary ingredients:
- 150 g butter, at room temperature
- 150 g sugar
- 1 egg
- 150 g flour
- 100 g roasted walnuts, ground
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 pinch of baking powder
- Vanilla or rum essence, to taste
- 50 g white chocolate and 50 g dark chocolate, for glazing
- Colored sprinkles for decoration (optional)

Ingredient details:
- Butter: Choose a high-quality butter, as it will give the cookies a rich texture and intense flavor.
- Walnuts: Using roasted walnuts adds a deep taste and unique aroma. You can also use other types of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to bring a personal touch to the recipe.
- Cinnamon: This spice not only enriches the aroma of the cookies but also evokes pleasant Christmas memories.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Start by preparing the ingredients. Make sure the butter is at room temperature so it can easily mix with the sugar. Mix the 150 g of sugar with the butter in a bowl, using a mixer or spatula, until you achieve a creamy and homogeneous mixture. This step is crucial for incorporating air into the mixture, which will make the cookies fluffier.

2. Add the egg to the butter and sugar mixture, continuing to mix until fully incorporated. If desired, you can add a vanilla or rum essence for extra flavor.

3. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and ground walnuts. Mix the dry ingredients well, then gradually incorporate them into the wet mixture, mixing gently. It’s important not to overmix the dough, just until the ingredients are well integrated.

4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the dough rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This step helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to shape the cookies.

5. After the dough has chilled, sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out the dough to about 0.5 cm thick. Use holiday-themed cookie cutters, such as trees or bells, to cut out the cookies.

6. Place the cookies on a greased baking tray or lined with parchment paper, making sure to leave a little space between them to allow for expansion during baking.

7. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the cookies for 10-15 minutes, or until the edges turn slightly golden. Check them frequently, as baking time may vary depending on the oven.

8. After baking, let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. It’s essential for the cookies to be cool before glazing; otherwise, the chocolate will melt.

9. Meanwhile, melt the white and dark chocolate in a double boiler or microwave, stirring until smooth. Use a teaspoon or a paper cone to glaze the cookies and let them set.

10. Finish the cookies with colored sprinkles, adding a festive and appealing touch.

Useful tips:
- If you want a healthier version, you can replace sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
- You can experiment with various flavors, such as nutmeg or ginger, to personalize the cookies.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I freeze the cookies? Yes, the cookies can be frozen without any problems. Make sure to portion them and place them in a freezer bag.
- How can I keep them fresh? Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will remain delicious for several days.

These walnut cookies are more than just a simple dessert; they represent a tradition, a way to bring family and friends together. Served alongside a fragrant tea or mulled wine, walnut cookies can turn any gathering into a celebration. Enjoy every bite and let the magic of Christmas fill your heart!