Haselnusskipferl Hazelnut Crescents

Nothing says Christmas quite like the warm aroma of freshly baked cookies filling the house. German Christmas baking is known for its rich and flavorful treats, perfect for sharing with loved ones during the holiday season. Today, we bring you a delightful recipe straight from the heart of Germany – Haselnusskipferl, Hazelnut Crescents. These crescent-shaped cookies are a festive favorite, boasting a delicate crumb and a nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine on a cozy evening by the fireplace.

Ingredients:
-1 cup of finely ground hazelnuts
-1 cup of all-purpose flour
-1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
-1/2 cup of granulated sugar
-A pinch of salt
-Powdered sugar, for dusting

Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the finely ground hazelnuts to the butter mixture and combine well.
4. Gradually add the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt to the bowl, mixing until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is too crumbly, you can add a little more softened butter to help bind it together.
5. Shape the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let it firm up.
6. Once chilled, take small portions of the dough and roll them into ropes about 3 inches long.
7. Gently shape each rope into a crescent by curving the ends inward to form the traditional crescent shape.
8. Place the shaped crescents onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each cookie.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the crescents are lightly golden.
10. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Once cooled, dust the Hazelnut Crescents generously with powdered sugar for a festive finish.

These Haselnusskipferl Hazelnut Crescents are a delightful addition to any holiday spread. Their nutty crunch and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for gifting or simply enjoying with a cup of hot tea. Whether you’re hosting a Christmas gathering or looking for a cozy treat to enjoy with your family, these German-inspired cookies will surely bring joy and warmth to your home this holiday season. Try your hand at this classic recipe and infuse your home with the spirit of Christmas baking.