Christmas Cookies

Christmas Cookies: A Flavorful and Traditional Delight

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooling Time: 1-2 hours
Baking Time: 15-20 minutes
Total: 1-2 hours and a half
Servings: Approximately 40-50 cookies

Christmas cookies are a true tradition in many cultures, representing not only a delicious dessert but also joyful moments spent with loved ones. These cookies, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, can be transformed into works of art with the help of icing, bringing a touch of magic to every celebration.

Ingredients

Dough 1 - Traditional:
- 3 whole eggs
- 400-500 g of sugar
- Zest of one orange
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons of sour cream
- 1 teaspoon of baking soda
- 250 g of soft margarine or butter
- 1 kg of flour

Dough 2 - Modern:
- 200 g of flour
- A pinch of fine salt
- 125 g of soft butter
- 50 g of almond flour
- 100 g of brown sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon of spices (cinnamon, ginger, cloves)
- ½ teaspoon of baking soda or baking powder

Royal Icing:
- A few drops of lemon juice
- 1 egg white
- 200 g of powdered sugar

Icing 2:
- 150 g of powdered sugar
- A few drops of lemon juice
- A pinch of cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough
In a large bowl, add the whole eggs and sugar. Use a mixer or whisk to beat the ingredients until foamy. This step is essential to incorporate air, which will make the cookies fluffier.

2. Adding Moist Ingredients
To the egg and sugar mixture, add the orange zest, vanilla sugar, sour cream, and soft margarine or butter. Mix well until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

3. Incorporating Dry Ingredients
Sift the flour and baking soda into the wet mixture. Use a spatula to combine the dry ingredients with the wet ones, being careful not to overmix. The dough should be homogeneous but not overworked.

4. Chilling the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. This step will help firm up the dough, making it easier to shape.

5. Shaping the Cookies
After the dough has chilled, sprinkle some flour on a work surface and roll out the dough to about 5 mm thick. Use cookie cutters to create various shapes. If you have a set of festive cutters, now is the perfect time to use them!

6. Baking the Cookies
Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until they become slightly golden around the edges. It is important not to let them brown too much, as they will dry out.

7. Preparing the Icing
For the royal icing, beat the egg white in a clean bowl until frothy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and a few drops of lemon juice. Mix until the icing becomes glossy and has a thick consistency. You can add food coloring for a festive look.

8. Icing the Cookies
Once the cookies have completely cooled, use a spatula or piping bag to apply the icing. You can use your creativity to draw patterns or create trees and other shapes.

9. Drying the Icing
Place the iced cookies on a cooling rack and let them dry for a few hours. It is important for the icing to be completely dry before storing them.

Practical Tips

- Ingredients: Use high-quality ingredients. Brown sugar will give the cookies a deeper flavor, while butter will add a rich texture.
- Flavor: Experiment with spices! Cinnamon, ginger, and cloves are not only aromatic but also traditional during the holidays.
- Variations: You can add nuts, chocolate, or dried fruits to the dough for a variety of flavors and textures.
- Serving: The cookies are delicious alongside a cup of hot tea or a glass of milk. You can also give them as gifts, beautifully packaged in decorative boxes.

Nutritional Benefits

Christmas cookies, despite being sweet, can provide energy due to the carbohydrates from sugar and flour. If you use whole ingredients, such as almond flour, you can increase the protein and healthy fat content.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of flour?
Yes, you can experiment with whole flour or almond flour, but you will need to adjust the proportions to achieve the desired consistency.

2. How can I store the cookies?
Cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If they are iced, wait for them to dry completely before storing.

3. Can I freeze the cookies?
Yes, cookies can be frozen before being iced. You can keep them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Personal Story

Memories associated with Christmas cookies are always linked to moments spent with loved ones. Every year, I enjoy making them with my family, turning cooking into a tradition filled with laughter and stories. Each cut shape is an opportunity to connect and create unforgettable memories.

Conclusion

Christmas cookies are more than just a dessert; they are an experience that brings joy and warmth into our homes. By following this step-by-step recipe, you will create a delicacy that will not only delight the taste buds but also bring a touch of magic to your holidays. Happy cooking!