Austrian Christmas Cookies

Step 2: Make the Dough

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
2. Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat until fully combined.
3. Gradually mix in the flour and salt until the dough comes together. If you like, add finely ground nuts (almonds or hazelnuts) for extra flavor.

Tip: Avoid overmixing, as it can make the cookies tough.

Step 3: Shape the Cookies

Austrian Christmas cookies come in various shapes: stars, crescents, circles, or small squares. Here’s how you can shape them:

• Cut-out cookies: Roll the dough to about ¼ inch thickness and use cookie cutters to make festive shapes.
• Crescent cookies (Vanillekipferl): Take small portions of dough and roll into crescents.
• Jam-filled cookies (Linzer-style): Roll dough, cut into circles, and make a small cut or hole in half the cookies.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between them. Bake for 10–15 minutes until lightly golden around the edges. Baking times can vary depending on cookie size and shape, so watch carefully.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches

After baking, let cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Then:

• Vanillekipferl: Dust generously with powdered sugar.
• Jam-filled cookies: Spread a thin layer of apricot or raspberry jam between two cookies.
• Chocolate-dipped cookies: Dip half of the cookie in melted chocolate and let it set.

Step 6: Store or Gift

Austrian Christmas cookies can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. Many families actually prepare them weeks in advance—the flavors intensify over time, making them even more delicious as the holidays approach. These cookies also make wonderful gifts, wrapped in festive tins or boxes.

Tips for Perfect Austrian Christmas Cookies

1. Use high-quality butter for a richer, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2. Chill the dough for 30 minutes if it feels too soft; this makes shaping easier.
3. Experiment with flavors: A pinch of cinnamon, cloves, or cardamom can elevate the cookies.
4. Uniform shapes ensure even baking.

Conclusion

Austrian Christmas cookies are more than a holiday treat—they’re a piece of tradition that brings warmth and joy to every festive season. From buttery Vanillekipferl to jam-filled Linzer cookies, each bite tells a story of family gatherings, snowy evenings, and the timeless art of holiday baking. By following these steps, you can bring a touch of Austria into your kitchen and share the magic of Christmas cookies with everyone you love.

If you want, I can also give you a list of 5 classic Austrian Christmas cookie varieties with individual recipes so you can make a full holiday assortment. Do you want me to do that?