Bohemian Christmas Cookies

Bohemian Christmas Cookies Recipe from Czech Republic

Region / culture: Czech Republic | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Bohemian Christmas Cookies are a delightful treat that brings warmth and joy to the holiday season. These cookies, with their rich history and delicious taste, have been a staple in holiday celebrations for generations. Made with simple yet flavorful ingredients, they embody the spirit of Christmas and are perfect for sharing with loved ones. This recipe will guide you through creating these cherished cookies, ensuring they become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.

History

The tradition of Bohemian Christmas Cookies dates back to the old Bohemia region, now part of the Czech Republic. These cookies were originally made during the Christmas season as a symbol of celebration and gratitude. Over the years, the recipe was passed down through generations, with each adding their own touch to these delightful treats. Today, they are a symbol of warmth, family, and the joy of the holiday season, enjoyed by people all around the world.

Ingredients

2 hard cooked egg yolks
0.33 cup butter or shortening
0.33 cup sugar
1 egg yolk
1 tbsp milk
enough flour for rolling
3 tbsp finely chopped blanched almonds

How to prepare

Start by passing the hard-cooked egg yolks through a ricer or sieve and combine with the butter or shortening.
Add the sugar and cream the mixture once more, then incorporate the uncooked egg yolk, milk, and sifted flour.
The dough should have a stiff consistency suitable for rolling.
Use cookie cutters to shape the dough into small rounds, then brush them with beaten egg white and sprinkle finely chopped almonds on top.
Bake in a slow oven at 300°F (149°C).

Variations

Consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dough for a spiced version of these cookies. For a nut-free variant, omit the almonds and sprinkle with sugar crystals or colored sprinkles before baking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Bohemian Christmas Cookies turn out perfectly, consider these tips and tricks:

- Ensure the hard-cooked egg yolks are finely sieved to achieve a smooth texture in the dough.

- Cream the shortening and sugar thoroughly to incorporate air into the mixture, making the cookies light and fluffy.

- Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking without adding too much flour, which could make the dough tough.

- Keep an eye on the cookies while baking, as their delicate nature means they can easily overcook.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies with a warm cup of mulled wine or cider for a cozy holiday treat. They also pair beautifully with a glass of milk for the younger ones or a cup of coffee for a festive breakfast.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is creaming the shortening and sugar, which introduces air into the mixture, resulting in light and fluffy cookies. Additionally, rolling the dough to an even thickness ensures uniform baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier version, substitute the shortening with unsalted butter and use a sugar alternative like coconut sugar. Almond flour can replace a portion of the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for Bohemian Christmas Cookies can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling, cutting, and baking.

Presentation Ideas

Present these cookies on a festive platter, garnished with sprigs of holly or dusted with powdered sugar for a snowy effect. They can also be packaged in decorative tins as thoughtful homemade gifts.

Pairing Recommendations

Bohemian Christmas Cookies pair wonderfully with dessert wines, such as a sweet Riesling or a Port, which complement the cookies' sweetness and nutty flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can be gently reheated in a low oven for a few minutes to refresh them before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Bohemian Christmas Cookies contains approximately 120 calories. This makes them a relatively light treat, perfect for enjoying without overindulging during the holiday festivities.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Bohemian Christmas Cookies contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe comes from the sugar and flour, providing the energy needed for holiday activities.

Fats

These cookies contain about 7 grams of fat per serving, with the main sources being shortening and egg yolks. While fats are essential for a balanced diet, moderation is key, especially during the indulgent holiday season.

Proteins

Bohemian Christmas Cookies offer around 2 grams of protein per serving. The protein in this recipe comes from the eggs and almonds, contributing to the cookies' nutritional value.

Vitamins and minerals

These cookies provide a range of vitamins and minerals, including calcium from the milk and almonds, and vitamin A from the egg yolks. They also contain small amounts of iron and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs, nuts (almonds), and gluten (flour). Those with allergies or sensitivities should take caution or consider ingredient substitutions.

Summary

Bohemian Christmas Cookies are a delightful treat with a balanced nutritional profile. While they contain sugars and fats, they also offer proteins, vitamins, and minerals, making them a relatively wholesome option for holiday snacking.

Summary

Bohemian Christmas Cookies are a timeless holiday treat that brings joy and warmth to the festive season. With their rich history, delicious taste, and the love that goes into making them, they are sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I discovered this recipe for Bohemian Christmas Cookies. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the Czech Republic. My grandmother, who was an amazing cook, would spend hours in the kitchen baking all sorts of delicious treats for our family during the holiday season.

One day, as I sat at the kitchen table watching her work her magic, she pulled out an old, worn cookbook that had been passed down through generations of our family. She flipped through the pages until she landed on a recipe for Bohemian Christmas Cookies. I watched in awe as she gathered the ingredients and began to mix them together, her hands moving with such grace and precision.

As the cookies baked in the oven, the sweet aroma filled the kitchen, and I knew I had to learn how to make them myself. So, I asked my grandmother to teach me the recipe, and she happily obliged. She showed me how to measure out each ingredient, how to knead the dough just right, and how to shape the cookies into perfect little rounds.

Over the years, I have made these Bohemian Christmas Cookies countless times, perfecting the recipe and adding my own little twists along the way. I have shared them with friends and neighbors, and they have become a staple at our holiday gatherings.

The secret to these cookies lies in the combination of butter, sugar, and ground almonds, which give them a rich, nutty flavor that is simply irresistible. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg adds a warm, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with a cup of hot tea or mulled wine on a cold winter's night.

Every time I make these cookies, I am transported back to that cozy kitchen in my grandmother's house, surrounded by the warmth and love of family. I can hear her laughter and feel her gentle guidance as I knead the dough and shape the cookies with care.

These Bohemian Christmas Cookies are more than just a recipe to me – they are a connection to my past, a link to my heritage, and a way to keep the traditions of my family alive. And as I pass this recipe down to my own children and grandchildren, I know that it will continue to bring joy and warmth to our home for generations to come.