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Vanillekipferl

Vanillekipferl
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Learn to bake traditional Austrian and German Vanillekipferl cookies with a rich buttery texture and delicate vanilla aroma. These crescent-shaped cookies offer an irresistible melt-in-your-mouth experience with a crumbly bite, perfect for festive occasions, gifting, or pairing with warm beverages.

Ingredients

Scale

Basic Ingredients

  • 250g cold unsalted butter
  • 280g all-purpose flour
  • 100g finely ground almonds or hazelnuts
  • 70g granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • A pinch of salt

For Dusting

  • Vanilla sugar for dusting (or powdered sugar mixed with a pinch of vanilla extract)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Begin by mixing cold unsalted butter, all-purpose flour, ground nuts, granulated sugar, a pinch of salt, and vanilla extract (if using) until a smooth, crumbly dough forms. Handle gently to avoid warming the butter, crucial for achieving the cookies’ melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  2. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This chill time makes shaping easier and helps the cookies retain their delicate crumb during baking.
  3. Shape the Cookies: Divide the dough into small pieces. Roll each piece into a tiny log about the length of your pinky finger, then curve it into the iconic crescent shape characteristic of Vanillekipferl.
  4. Bake Until Lightly Golden: Place the crescent-shaped cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges turn just golden. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even baking.
  5. Dust with Vanilla Sugar: While still warm, gently toss or sprinkle the cookies with vanilla sugar to infuse the signature vanilla fragrance and add a delicate sweetness.

Notes

  • Use room temperature toasted nuts for enhanced flavor before grinding.
  • Mix dough only until combined to avoid tough cookies.
  • Thoroughly chill dough to help cookies keep their shape and prevent excessive spreading.
  • Rotate baking sheet halfway through baking for even browning.
  • Use quality vanilla sugar or homemade vanilla sugar to elevate aroma and taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: Vanillekipferl, Austrian cookies, crescent cookies, traditional cookies, vanilla cookies, nut cookies, holiday cookies, buttery cookies

Find it online: https://linacorner.com/vanillekipferl/