Christmas Cookies are a delightful holiday treat that bring a sense of warmth and joy. These sweet, spiced snacks not only fill your home with delicious smells but also spread festive cheer among family and friends. With a combination of savoiardi, almonds, and a medley of dried fruits and nuts, this recipe captures the essence of the holiday season. Let’s dive into making these flavorful bites that are sure to impress everyone at your holiday gatherings!
What Goes into These Christmas Cookies
Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating these delightful treats. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 300 grams (10.5 oz) of savoiardi (ladyfingers)
- 50 grams (1.75 oz) of peeled almonds
- 125 grams (4.4 oz) of flour
- 160 grams (5.6 oz) of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 generous teaspoon of cinnamon powder
- A pinch of baking powder
- 50 grams (1.75 oz) of pine nuts
- 50 grams (1.75 oz) of dried figs, chopped
- 50 grams (1.75 oz) of candied citrus peel, diced
- 2 egg whites
- Water as needed to soften the dough
Step-by-Step Christmas Cookies Recipe
Making these Christmas Cookies is straightforward and fun! Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Measure and prepare all of your ingredients carefully.
- Chop the savoiardi and almonds finely using a mixer or a knife.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped savoiardi, almonds, flour, sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of baking powder.
- Add the unwhipped egg whites to the mixture and start kneading the dough by hand, adding a little room temperature water as needed to soften.
- Incorporate the chopped candied fruit, pine nuts, and dried figs, mixing everything well until combined.
- Shape the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking tray. Flatten them slightly to create an oval shape.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, ensuring they stay slightly soft in the center.
- Once done, dust with powdered sugar and let cool before serving.
Serve & Enjoy Your Christmas Cookies
These cheerful cookies are perfect for any holiday occasion. You can serve them on a festive platter alongside a cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea. For an extra touch, consider dusting additional powdered sugar just before serving. They also make a wonderful gift when placed in a decorative tin, bringing holiday spirit to friends and family.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add a Twist: Feel free to include other nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for added crunch.
- Spicy Kick: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to spice things up.
- Fruity Flavor: Substitute the dried figs with your favorite dried fruit, such as apricots or cranberries.
Christmas Cookies FAQs
Can I make these cookies ahead of time?
Yes! These cookies can be made a few days in advance. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
What can I use instead of savoiardi?
If you can’t find savoiardi, you can use crushed ladyfinger cookies or sponge cake as an alternative.
How should I store the cookies?
Keep your cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They will stay fresh for about a week.
Making these Christmas Cookies is a delightful way to celebrate the season, and I hope you enjoy baking—and, of course, tasting—these wonderful treats. Gather your ingredients, share some love with friends and family, and create lasting memories. Happy baking!
Christmas Cookies
Delightful holiday treats filled with spiced flavor, perfect for sharing and impressing friends and family during the festive season.
For the Cookie Base
- 300 grams savoiardi (ladyfingers)
- 50 grams peeled almonds
- 125 grams flour
- 160 grams sugar
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder (generous)
- a pinch baking powder
- 2 egg whites
- Water as needed to soften the dough
Add-ins
- 50 grams pine nuts
- 50 grams dried figs, chopped
- 50 grams candied citrus peel, diced
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
- Measure and prepare all of your ingredients carefully.
- Chop the savoiardi and almonds finely using a mixer or a knife.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped savoiardi, almonds, flour, sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of baking powder.
- Add the unwhipped egg whites to the mixture and start kneading the dough by hand, adding a little room temperature water as needed to soften.
- Incorporate the chopped candied fruit, pine nuts, and dried figs, mixing everything well until combined.
- Shape the dough into small balls and place them on the prepared baking tray. Flatten them slightly to create an oval shape.
Baking
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, ensuring they stay slightly soft in the center.
- Once done, dust with powdered sugar and let cool before serving.
These cheerful cookies are perfect for any holiday occasion. You can serve them on a festive platter alongside a cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea. For an extra touch, consider dusting additional powdered sugar just before serving. They also make a wonderful gift when placed in a decorative tin.
