Uncover the Delight of Hazelnut Buttons: The Christmas Cookie You’ve Been Missing Out On!

23. 8. 2024

The confection, which consists of delicious Linzer dough and a hazelnut cap, is one of the less well-known Christmas pastries.

This is unfortunate because it is appreciated by housewives who like to prepare sweets in advance and diners who may not enjoy a full nutty flavor.

How do you bake these hazelnut button cookies?

Mastering the Art of Button Cookies: Tips for Baking Success

The holiday season calls for a touch of elegance, and these charming Button Cookies deliver just that. A buttery Linzer dough base provides a sturdy foundation, while a cloud-like meringue cap adds a delicate sweetness. The secret to success lies in the freshness of your ingredients and mastering the art of the perfect meringue.

The Foundation: Linzer Dough

The Linzer dough, a simple yet flavorful shortbread, serves as the base for these delightful cookies. Its buttery richness and crumbly texture complement the airy meringue topping. To ensure the best results:

• Fresh is Best: Use high-quality, fresh butter for a superior flavor and texture. Cold butter is ideal for creating a dough that holds its shape when rolled and cut.
• Handle with Care: Avoid overmixing the dough, as this can lead to tough cookies. Mix just until the ingredients come together into a smooth ball.
• Chill Out: Chilling the dough for at least 30 minutes allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender cookie that holds its shape during baking.

The Star: Meringue Caps

The meringue caps are the crowning glory of these cookies. A perfectly piped meringue should be light, airy, and hold its shape beautifully. Follow these tips for meringue mastery:

• Egg-cellent Choice: Fresh eggs are crucial for achieving a stable meringue. If you’re unsure about the freshness of your eggs, add a teaspoon of cream of tartar or lemon juice per egg white. This helps stabilize the egg white proteins, ensuring a fluffy meringue.
• Sugar Rush: Gradually add the sugar to the egg whites once they have reached soft peaks. Adding sugar too early can prevent the egg whites from reaching their full volume.
• Peak Performance: Beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks. This means that when you lift the beaters, the meringue stands straight up without drooping.
• Piping Perfection: Transfer the meringue to a piping bag fitted with a decorative tip. Pipe a generous swirl onto each cookie base, creating a beautiful, cloud-like cap.

Additional Ingredients:

• Vibrant Jam: A dollop of high-quality fruit preserves adds a burst of flavor and color to these cookies. Choose a flavor that complements the buttery dough and sweet meringue, such as raspberry, apricot, or blackberry.
• Nutty Delight: A sprinkle of finely chopped nuts adds a touch of texture and richness. Toasted almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans are all delicious options.

Baking & Beyond:

Bake the cookies until the meringue is lightly golden brown and the edges of the dough are set. Let them cool completely on the baking sheet before storing in an airtight container.

Button Cookies are a delightful addition to any holiday gathering or cookie exchange. Their delicate beauty and delightful combination of textures and flavors are sure to impress. With fresh ingredients and a bit of practice, you’ll be baking these festive treats like a seasoned pro.

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