Imagine a delicate, crescent-shaped cookie that transports you straight to the charming cafés of Vienna with just one bite! The Vanillekipferl is not just a cookie – it's a magical Austrian tradition that combines the rich, nutty warmth of ground walnuts with a whisper of vanilla and a cloud-like dusting of powdered sugar. These mouthwatering treats are so irresistible, they'll have your family and friends begging for more, and they're surprisingly simple to make right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Austrian
Serves: 24 cookies
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup ground walnuts
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. Measure and prepare all ingredients precisely.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground walnuts, and salt. Whisk together to create a uniform dry mixture.
- In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter until smooth and light. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until well incorporated and slightly fluffy.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, stirring gently until a soft, crumbly dough forms. Avoid overmixing.
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the ingredients to rest and become more manageable.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Remove dough from refrigerator. Take small portions and roll into crescent-shaped cookies, about 2-3 inches long.
- Place cookies on prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden but not brown.
- Remove from oven and let cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes.
- While still warm, carefully roll cookies in additional powdered sugar, coating evenly.
- Transfer cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with another light layer of powdered sugar if desired.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
Tips
- • Temperature is key! Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for the smoothest, most consistent dough. • Don't overwork the dough – mix just until ingredients are combined to keep the cookies tender. • Chilling the dough is crucial – it helps the cookies maintain their shape and develops a richer flavor. • Use a light touch when shaping the crescents – they should be delicate and uniform. • Roll the warm cookies in powdered sugar while they're still slightly warm for the best coating. • For extra elegance, use a fine-mesh sieve to dust the final layer of powdered sugar for a professional look. • Store in an airtight container to maintain their delicate texture and keep them fresh for up to a week. • Pro baker's secret: These cookies actually taste better a day or two after baking as the flavors meld together!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 80kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 12mg
