Rose Cookies

Rose Cookies – A Delicacy That Combines the Aroma of Nuts with the Sweetness of Cocoa

Rose Cookies are an absolutely delicious choice for any occasion, being a refined and savory version of traditional jam and nut baskets. These cookies are not only a delight for the taste buds but also a pleasure for the eyes, featuring an elegant shape that adds a touch of magic to the festive table. Preparing them can become a pleasant family activity, and the result is definitely worth the effort. So, get ready to amaze your guests with these incredible cookies!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Proofing time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total: 2 hours
Number of servings: Approximately 30 cookies

Ingredients:
- 200 g butter (ideally at room temperature)
- 4 egg yolks
- 600 g flour (may vary depending on desired consistency)
- 200 ml buttermilk
- 20 g fresh yeast
- 200 ml warm milk
- 100 g sugar (preferably granulated sugar)
- 150 g walnuts (finely ground)
- 2 tablespoons cocoa
- a pinch of salt
- oil (to grease the working surface)
- vanilla sugar (to taste)
- grated zest of one lemon (for added flavor)

History of Rose Cookies

The origins of these cookies are deeply rooted in the cooking traditions of many cultures, where yeast-based sweets are appreciated for their light texture and rich flavor. Rose Cookies combine the technique of yeast dough with a delicious walnut and cocoa filling, resulting in a perfect snack for any time of the day. These cookies are often served on special occasions, but don’t hesitate to make them on ordinary days to bring a festive touch to everyday life.

Preparing Rose Cookies

1. Activating the yeast: Start by mixing the yeast with a teaspoon of sugar, 2 tablespoons of warm milk, and 1 tablespoon of flour. Let the mixture sit in a warm place for 10-15 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is essential to activate the yeast, ensuring an even proofing of the dough.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the soft butter and egg yolks. Mix well using a spatula or a mixer, adding one yolk at a time to avoid lumps. Now, to prevent the butter from looking curdled, incorporate one tablespoon of flour while mixing.

3. Adding the liquid ingredients: Next, add the buttermilk and half of the flour. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt. Mix the ingredients well, then add the activated yeast mixture.

4. Forming the dough: Gradually incorporate the remaining flour, kneading with your hands until you achieve a homogeneous dough. It is important to add flour gradually to avoid making the dough too hard. Knead the dough for about 15 minutes until it becomes elastic and pulls away from the sides of the bowl. Towards the end, add a little oil to give it shine and make it easier to handle.

5. Proofing the dough: Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise for about 1 hour in a warm place until it doubles in volume.

6. Preparing the filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the filling. Toast the walnut kernels in a pan without oil to enhance their flavor. Then, finely grind them and mix with the whipped egg whites, 100 g of sugar, and lemon juice. Add cocoa and a little vanilla sugar, mixing well until you obtain a homogeneous mixture.

7. Forming the cookies: After the dough has risen, divide it into small portions and roll each portion into a thin sheet. Place the walnut and cocoa filling on the sheet and carefully roll it up, forming a log. Cut the logs into pieces of 2-3 cm, placing them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, thus forming little snails.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and let the cookies proof for another 20 minutes. Bake the cookies for about 30 minutes or until they turn golden and fluffy. Finally, sprinkle powdered sugar for an elegant appearance.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Rose Cookies can be enjoyed plain, alongside a cup of tea or aromatic coffee. For an extra touch of refinement, you can serve these cookies with melted chocolate glaze or caramel sauce. If you want to experiment, replace the walnuts with almonds or hazelnuts and add spices like cinnamon to vary the flavors.

Nutritional Benefits

These cookies are a good source of energy due to the walnut content, which is rich in healthy fats, proteins, and vitamins. Additionally, cocoa has antioxidant effects, contributing to heart health and improving mood. Rose Cookies are a better choice compared to other processed sweets, offering an authentic and natural taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to follow the activation instructions on the package.

2. What can I do if the dough is too sticky?
Gradually add more flour until the dough becomes easy to handle. However, be careful not to add too much flour, as the dough will become too hard.

3. How do I keep the cookies fresh?
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for a few days.

4. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, the cookies can be frozen. Make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container.

These Rose Cookies are more than just a recipe; they are a way to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Whether you prepare them for a special occasion or simply to treat your family, these cookies will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the cooking process!