How to Make Vanilla Crescents

Here is a great recipe how to make Vanilla Crescents known as Vanillekipferl in German, are a traditional Christmas cookie popular in Germany and Austria. These delicate, crescent-shaped cookies are known for their crumbly texture and rich vanilla flavor.

Ingredients:

1. All-Purpose Flour: Approximately 2 cups

2. Unsalted Butter: About 1 cup, softened at room temperature

3. Powdered Sugar: Roughly 3/4 to 1 cup for the dough, and additional for dusting

4. Ground Nuts (Walnuts, Almonds, or Hazelnuts): About 3/4 to 1 cup, finely ground

5. Vanilla Sugar: Typically 1 to 2 tablespoons for the dough, and additional for dusting

6. Salt: A pinch

7. Optional Egg Yolks: Some folks use 1 or 2 egg yolks, but they are not traditional.

Let's Get Started:

1. Prepare the Dough: Combine flour, butter, powdered sugar, ground nuts, vanilla sugar, and salt in a bowl. The dough will be somewhat dry and flaky, resembling shortbread dough. Some recipes suggest adding a small amount of milk if the dough is too crumbly.

2. Chill the Dough: After kneading, shape the dough into a log, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about an hour. This chilling step is crucial for the dough to firm up.

3. Shaping: Preheat your oven. Take a portion of the dough and roll it into small crescents. Ensure they are uniform in size for even baking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

4. Baking: Bake the cookies at a moderate temperature until the edges start to turn golden. It's important not to overbake them, as they should remain pale with only the edges slightly golden.

5. Dusting with Sugar: After baking, while still warm, dust the cookies with a mixture of powdered sugar and vanilla sugar. Some folks like giving them a second dusting after they have cooled completely.

6. Storing: Store the cookies in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can last for several weeks.

Tips for Success:

• The quality of the butter is crucial as it significantly affects the flavor and texture of the cookies.

• Avoid handling the dough too much to prevent the butter from melting.

• Uniform sizing of the cookies ensures even baking.

• Letting them sit in an airtight container for a few days before consuming can enhance their flavor.

Enjoy this holiday treat!