Vanilla Crescents

Vanilla Crescent Cookies – The Delight that Melts in Your Mouth

Who hasn’t dreamed of a delicacy that brings back the flavors of childhood? Vanilla crescent cookies, also known as Vanillekipferl, are that sweet magic that entices our senses and makes us feel at home. These little tender crescents are perfect for enjoying alongside a cup of tea or coffee, and they also make heartfelt gifts. Listen closely, because today I will guide you step by step in preparing a delicious recipe that will fill your home with inviting aromas!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Baking time: 15-20 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 35 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 30 cookies

Ingredients:
- 200 g flour (preferably type 000)
- 150 g butter (ideally at room temperature for easy kneading)
- 2 egg yolks (fresh, from free-range hens)
- 80 g sugar (you can use fine sugar for a finer texture)
- 1 vial of vanilla essence (or 1 vanilla pod for a more intense flavor)
- 100 g nuts or almonds (finely ground for a deeper aroma)
- A pinch of salt (to enhance the sweetness)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by measuring all the ingredients. Make sure the butter is soft so it can be easily incorporated into the dough. If using nuts or almonds, you can grind them at home for a fresh taste.

2. Kneading the dough: In a large bowl, add the flour, butter, egg yolks, sugar, vanilla essence, nuts or almonds, and salt. Use your fingers or a spatula to combine the ingredients until you achieve a homogeneous mixture. This is the perfect moment to add your personal touch. If you like, you can add a bit of lemon or orange zest for a fresh note!

3. Chilling the dough: Once the dough is well kneaded, shape it into a ball, wrap it in cling film, and place it in the fridge for about an hour. This step is crucial as it helps firm up the butter and makes shaping the cookies easier.

4. Shaping the cookies: Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat). After the dough has chilled, take it out of the fridge and break off small pieces, about the size of a walnut. Shape them into crescent or cookie forms. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper, leaving a little space between them.

5. Baking: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are lightly golden around the edges. Don’t leave them too long, as they should remain tender!

6. Coating in sugar: While the cookies are still hot, prepare a mixture of powdered sugar and vanilla sugar (or vanilla essence). Carefully coat the freshly baked cookies with this sweet mixture. This will add a touch of elegance and a surprisingly good taste!

7. Final cooling: Let the cookies cool on a rack. Once they have cooled, you can store them in an airtight container. These delights keep well for a few weeks, but they definitely won’t last that long!

Useful tips:
- If you want a more intense vanilla flavor, you can use a vanilla pod instead of essence. Slice it open and scrape the seeds into the dough.
- You can try adding ground walnuts or pistachios instead of nuts or almonds for a different texture.
- These cookies are perfect for gifting, so wrap them nicely in a decorative box!

Nutritional benefits:
Vanilla crescent cookies are a sweet delicacy, but due to the basic ingredients like nuts or almonds, they provide a supply of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E and healthy fatty acids. When consumed in moderation, they can be part of a balanced diet.

Calories: Approximately 80 calories per cookie (varies depending on size and ingredients).

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace butter with margarine? While it’s possible, for an authentic taste and better texture, we recommend using quality butter.
- Can I make these cookies vegan? Yes, you can replace butter with a vegan substitute and egg yolks with a mixture of flaxseeds and water.
- What can I serve alongside the vanilla crescent cookies? These delicious treats pair perfectly with a cup of citrus tea or a fragrant espresso.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that’s left is to grab the ingredients and start cooking! Vanilla crescent cookies are more than just a recipe – they are an experience, a story of taste and aroma that will keep you coming back to it. Enjoy every bite and share the joy with your loved ones!