11 Austrian Christmas Cookies Mountain Traditions

Linzer Cookies

Linzer Cookies, originating from Austria, are delightful sandwich cookies made with a simple buttery dough that typically includes ground nuts and is flavored with spices. These cookies are filled with jam, often raspberry or apricot, and are known for their distinctive cut-out shapes that reveal the vibrant jam on top. Perfect for the holiday season, they not only taste great but also look festive and inviting.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk the mixture together until it is well blended and set it aside.
3. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat well until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix; the dough should hold together but not be too sticky.
6. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal halves, shape each half into a disc, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps the dough to firm up and makes rolling easier.
7. Roll the Dough: Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc to about 1/8 inch thickness.
8. Cut Out Cookies: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the rolled dough. For half of the cookies, make a small cut-out in the center (these will be the top cookies). Carefully transfer the cut cookies to the prepared baking sheets.
9. Bake Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
10. Assemble Cookies: Once cookies are completely cool, spread about a teaspoon of jam on the flat side of the bottom cookies. Place the cut-out cookies on top to create a sandwich.
11. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Before serving or storing, dust the top cookies with additional powdered sugar for a festive touch.
12. Store and Enjoy: Enjoy your Linzer cookies immediately or store them in an airtight container for up to a week. They also make a wonderful gift during the holiday season!

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Vanillekipferl

Vanillekipferl are traditional Austrian crescent-shaped cookies that are often enjoyed during the Christmas season. They are made with a rich buttery dough that includes ground walnuts or almonds, giving them a delightful nutty flavor. These cookies are generously coated in powdered sugar, which adds a sweet touch to their melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground walnuts (or almonds), cornstarch, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended.
3. Cream the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the softened butter and powdered sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Egg Yolk and Vanilla: Incorporate the egg yolk and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until fully blended and smooth.
5. Combine & Form the Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. You may need to use your hands to bring the dough together if it becomes too crumbly.
6. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps firm up the dough for easier handling.
7. Shape the Cookies: After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Pinch off small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into crescent shapes. Place them on the prepared baking sheets.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on the bottom but still pale on top. Be careful not to overbake them.
9. Coat with Powdered Sugar: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. While still warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar (and optional vanilla sugar for extra flavor).
10. Cool Completely: Let the cookies cool completely before storing them in an airtight container. They will keep well for several weeks, allowing you to enjoy their deliciousness throughout the holiday season.

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Pfeffernüsse

Pfeffernüsse are traditional Austrian spiced cookies that are especially popular during the Christmas season. These cookies are characterized by their distinctive flavor profile, featuring hints of spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and ground cloves. Usually glazed with a sweet icing or rolled in powdered sugar, Pfeffernüsse are small, round, and provide a delightful balance of warmth and sweetness, making them a nostalgic holiday treat.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground cloves, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and powdered sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer.
4. Add Wet Ingredients: Add the molasses, honey, egg, and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until all the wet ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
6. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps firm up the dough, making it easier to handle.
7. Shape the Cookies: After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Pinch off small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into small balls. Place the balls about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are firm but still soft in the center. Allow them to cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
9. Glaze or Dust: Once cooled, you can either glaze the cookies with a mixture of powdered sugar and water or roll them in powdered sugar for an extra sweet touch. Allow any glaze to set before storing.
10. Store and Enjoy: Store the Pfeffernüsse in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. Enjoy them with a warm cup of tea or coffee for a perfect festive treat!

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Lebkuchen

Lebkuchen are traditional German gingerbread cookies that are enjoyed throughout the holiday season, especially in Austria. These delectable treats are typically flavored with honey, spices, and nuts, giving them a rich, aromatic taste and soft texture. Often decorated with icing or enjoyed plain, Lebkuchen cookies are a festive favorite in Christmas markets and homes alike.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Then, add the honey and eggs, beating until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a thick dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling helps to firm up the dough for easier handling.
6. Shape the Cookies: Once chilled, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough, then shape it into small rounds or flatten them slightly to form cookies. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 1-2 inches apart.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are firm and lightly golden around the edges.
8. Let Cool: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and allow the cookies to cool on the sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Optional Icing: If desired, make a simple icing by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of milk to achieve a thick consistency. Drizzle or spread the icing over the cooled Lebkuchen and let it set before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Lebkuchen as a delightful addition to your festive celebrations!

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Stollen

Stollen is a traditional German fruit bread that is especially popular during the Christmas season in Austria and Germany. This delightful treat is filled with a mixture of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, and often dusted with powdered sugar for a festive touch. Stollen has a rich history, and its preparation symbolizes the Christmas spirit, making it a beloved part of holiday celebrations.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and active dry yeast. Allow it to sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisk together until well mixed.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, egg, and the frothy yeast mixture. Mix until well blended.
4. Form the Dough: Gradually pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir until a rough dough forms.
5. Add Fruits and Nuts: Gently fold in the mixed dried fruits, chopped nuts, and lemon zest until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
6. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a little more flour as needed.
7. First Rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
8. Shape the Stollen: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Turn it out onto a floured surface again. Shape it into a log, then fold one side over about a third of the way, leaving one side exposed. This creates the traditional shape.
9. Second Rise: Transfer the shaped stollen onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it again and let it rise for an additional 30-45 minutes.
10. Preheat the Oven: While the stollen is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
11. Bake the Stollen: Once the stollen has risen, bake it in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
12. Cool and Dust: Remove the stollen from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, dust generously with powdered sugar before serving.

Enjoy your homemade stollen as a festive treat during the holidays!

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Spritzgebäck

Spritzgebäck is a classic Austrian Christmas cookie, characterized by its buttery texture and delicate, crisp bite. These cookies are often shaped using a cookie press or piping bag, creating beautiful designs that are perfect for holiday platters. Spritzgebäck can be flavored with vanilla, cocoa, or nuts, and is frequently decorated with festive sprinkles or chocolate for added visual appeal.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the creamed mixture. Beat until fully incorporated and smooth.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, beating on low speed until just combined. Do not overmix.
5. Fill the Cookie Press: If using a cookie press, fill it with the prepared dough. If you don’t have a cookie press, you can use a piping bag fitted with a star tip.
6. Pipe the Cookies: On the prepared baking sheet, pipe small shapes or rosettes, spacing them about 1 inch apart. If desired, use a fork or your fingers to gently press down on the tops of the cookies for a decorative touch.
7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Do not overbake as you want them to remain light in color.
8. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Decorate (Optional): If you’d like to add a finishing touch, melt some chocolate in a microwave or double boiler. Dip half of each cooled cookie into the melted chocolate or drizzle it over the cookies, and let it set.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Once any chocolate has hardened, the cookies are ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh during the festive season.

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Mohnnudeln

Mohnnudeln, or poppy seed noodles, are a delightful traditional Austrian dish that showcases the rich flavors of poppy seeds. This sweet dish typically features soft, tender noodles tossed in a luxurious mixture of ground poppy seeds, butter, and sugar, making it a perfect dessert or sweet main course. Often served warm, Mohnnudeln are comforting and offer a unique taste experience that showcases the beloved flavor of poppy seeds.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, eggs, salt, and water. Mix until a dough forms. The dough should be smooth and slightly sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour.
2. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. Let it rest for about 20 minutes, covered with a damp cloth.
3. Roll Out the Dough: After the resting period, divide the dough into quarters. Roll out each quarter on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thick. Cut them into strips or squares, about 1 inch wide.
4. Boil the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully add the cut dough pieces into the boiling water and cook them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are tender.
5. Drain the Noodles: Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the noodles from the pot and drain them in a colander. Rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process.
6. Prepare the Poppy Seed Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground poppy seeds, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until well combined.
7. Combine Noodles and Poppy Seed Mixture: Add the drained noodles to the bowl with the poppy seed mixture. Toss gently until the noodles are fully coated in the mixture.
8. Serve: Transfer the Mohnnudeln to serving plates. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve warm as a delightful dessert or a sweet main course.

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Nusstaler

Nusstaler are delightful Austrian nut cookies that bring together the rich, earthy flavors of nuts with a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture. These cookies are often filled with a sweet nut mixture and have a delicate, slightly crispy edge, perfectly complementing their chewy center. Nusstaler are a popular treat during the Christmas season but are enjoyed throughout the year, making them a beloved addition to any dessert table.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This typically takes about 2-3 minutes using an electric mixer.
2. Incorporate Eggs: Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract until fully combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and ground nuts. Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
4. Chill the Dough: Once the dough is thoroughly mixed, cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour. This will help the dough firm up and make it easier to work with.
5. Shape the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Take portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into small balls. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie as they will spread slightly during baking.
6. Create the Nut Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine additional ground nuts (if desired) with a small amount of sugar and set it aside. You can also add a few drops of water or egg white to bind the mixture together if you prefer a thicker filling.
7. Form the Cookies: Use your thumb or the back of a small spoon to make a slight indentation in the center of each cookie ball. Fill the indentations with the nut filling mixture.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake them as you want to retain a soft center.
9. Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, dust with powdered sugar for a delightful finishing touch.
10. Serve: Enjoy these delicious Nusstaler with a cup of tea or coffee, or serve them on a dessert platter during your festive gatherings.

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Kletzenbrot

Kletzenbrot is a traditional Austrian fruit and nut bread, commonly enjoyed during the Christmas season. This dense and hearty loaf combines dried fruits like pears and apples with a medley of nuts and spices, making it a festive treat that highlights the flavors of the season. Kletzenbrot is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition, making it a perfect addition to holiday gatherings.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dried Fruits: Begin by soaking the dried pears and apples in warm water for about 30 minutes to soften them. After soaking, drain the fruits and chop them into smaller pieces.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Mix well to evenly distribute the dry ingredients.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the milk (or water), honey, and lemon juice until combined.
4. Blend Wet and Dry: Create a well in the center of the dry mixture, then pour in the wet ingredients. Stir gently with a spoon until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Add Dried Fruits and Nuts: Gently fold the chopped dried fruits and chopped nuts into the batter until they are evenly distributed throughout.
6. Preheat Your Oven: Before baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
8. Transfer the Mixture: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. If you like, sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for added texture.
9. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the Kletzenbrot from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Serve on its own, or enjoy it with a bit of butter or cheese.

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Rumkugeln

Rumkugeln are a beloved Austrian confection, particularly popular during the holiday season. These decadent chocolate truffles are made with a combination of chocolate, nuts, and a splash of rum, rolled into bite-sized balls and coated in various toppings. Rumkugeln exude a rich, festive flavor that makes them a delightful treat for any holiday gathering or dessert table.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Melt the Chocolate and Butter: In a heatproof bowl, combine the dark chocolate and butter. Set over a saucepan of simmering water (double boiler method) and stir until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the ground nuts, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract. Mix well to verify even distribution of the ingredients.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: Pour the melted chocolate and butter mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Add the rum and stir until everything is thoroughly combined and forms a sticky dough.
4. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about 1-2 hours, or until the mixture is firm enough to handle.
5. Shape the Rumkugeln: Once the mixture is chilled, take small portions and roll them between your palms to form bite-sized balls. Aim for a diameter of about 1 inch.
6. Coat the Rumkugeln: Roll each chocolate ball in your choice of chopped nuts or chocolate sprinkles until completely coated. This step adds a delightful texture to the truffles.
7. Chill Again: Place the coated Rumkugeln on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for another 30 minutes to set.
8. Serve: Once set, arrange the Rumkugeln on a decorative plate or in holiday treat boxes. Enjoy these sweet confections with family and friends during the festive season!

Zimtsterne

Zimtsterne, or cinnamon stars, are a traditional German-Austrian Christmas cookie that delights the senses with their warm, spicy flavor and delightful chewy texture. These star-shaped treats are made with ground nuts, aromatic cinnamon, and a hint of lemon, topped with a sweet glaze. They are a festive favorite during the holiday season and are often enjoyed with coffee or tea.

Cooking Steps Instructions:

1. Prepare the Egg Whites: In a clean mixing bowl, beat the egg whites with an electric mixer on medium speed until they form soft peaks. This will take about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overbeat them, as you want them to be fluffy but not dry.
2. Add Sugar and Spices: Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat the egg whites. Once incorporated, add the ground cinnamon and lemon zest, mixing until fully combined.
3. Mix in Ground Almonds: Slowly fold in the ground almonds into the egg mixture using a spatula or wooden spoon. Continue folding until a thick, sticky dough forms. Be gentle to avoid deflating the egg whites.
4. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out in the next step.
5. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Roll the Dough: After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator. Dust a clean work surface with powdered sugar and roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookies, placing them on the prepared baking sheets as you go.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are slightly firm to the touch but still soft. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Make the Icing: In a small bowl, mix the additional powdered sugar with water to create a smooth, spreadable icing. You can adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar or water as needed.
9. Ice the Cookies: Once the cookies are completely cooled, use a small spatula or knife to spread the icing on top of each Zimtstern.
10. Set and Serve: Allow the icing to set for about 30 minutes before serving. Arrange the Zimtsterne on a festive platter or store them in an airtight container. Enjoy these delicious cookies with family and friends throughout the holiday season!