11 Czech Christmas Cookies Central European

Vanilkové Rohlíčky

Vanilkové Rohlíčky, or Vanilla Crescents, are traditional Czech Christmas cookies that are beloved for their delicate, buttery texture and sweet vanilla flavor. These crescent-shaped treats are dusted in powdered sugar, giving them a festive appeal that makes them a perfect addition to holiday baking. Their melt-in-your-mouth quality makes them a favorite around the holiday season.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, and a pinch of salt. Mix the dry ingredients well to guarantee an even distribution.
2. Add Butter: Cut the unsalted butter into small cubes and add them to the flour mixture. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Incorporate Sugar and Egg: Add the powdered sugar and vanilla sugar to the bowl. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly. Then, create a well in the center and add the egg yolk. Using a fork or your hands, mix everything together until a dough forms.
4. Shape the Dough: Lightly flour your work surface and turn the dough out onto it. Knead the dough gently for a minute until it becomes smooth. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
5. Preheat the Oven: While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Form the Crescents: Once the dough has chilled, take it out of the refrigerator. Pinch off small pieces (about 15g each) and roll them into small logs. Bend the logs into crescent shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet, spaced slightly apart.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake the crescent cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are light golden. Be careful not to overbake, as they should remain soft.
8. Dust with Sugar: As soon as the cookies come out of the oven, let them cool for a couple of minutes on the baking sheet. Then transfer them to a wire rack while they are still warm. Dust them generously with powdered sugar.
9. Cool and Store: Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving or storing them in an airtight container. Enjoy the heavenly flavors of these traditional Czech Christmas cookies!

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Trdelník

Trdelník, also known as chimney cake, is a traditional Czech pastry that is famous for its unique shape and sweet flavor. This delightful treat is made from a sweet, yeast-based dough that is rolled around a wooden or metal cylinder, baked over an open flame or in an oven, and coated in sugar and cinnamon. Often filled with various sweet toppings, Trdelník is a popular street food and a must-try for anyone celebrating the festive season in the Czech Republic.

Cooking Steps:

1. Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, warm the milk until slightly lukewarm (not hot). Sprinkle the active dry yeast into the milk along with a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture, melted butter, and the egg. Mix everything together until a messy dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
4. First Rise: Shape the kneaded dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rise in a warm place for about 1-2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Trdelník: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into equal portions (about 100g each). Roll each piece into a long strip (about 30cm long) and then wrap it around a greased wooden or metal cylinder, overlapping slightly as you go.
6. Coat with Sugar and Cinnamon: In a shallow dish, mix the granulated sugar with the cinnamon. Roll the wrapped dough in this mixture until it is well coated.
7. Second Rise: Place the coated cylinders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them with a towel and let them rise for an additional 30 minutes.
8. Preheat the Oven: As the dough rises again, preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
9. Bake the Trdelník: Place the baking sheet with the Trdelník in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, turning the cylinders halfway through baking to guarantee even cooking. The pastry should turn a golden brown and be cooked through.
10. Cool and Fill: Once baked, carefully remove the Trdelník from the cylinders while still hot. Allow them to cool slightly. If using fillings like Nutella or whipped cream, pipe or spread them inside the hollow center of the cake.
11. Serve: Enjoy your warm, delicious Trdelník immediately, or allow them to cool to room temperature before serving. They’re best when freshly baked!

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Linecké Koláčky

Linecké Koláčky, also known as Linzer cookies, are a beloved traditional Czech Christmas treat characterized by their buttery, crumbly texture and delightful fruit preserves center. These delightful cookies, often garnished with a dusting of powdered sugar, are typically prepared in various shapes and are a festive favorite during the holiday season in the Czech Republic.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, and a pinch of salt. Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Add Sugar and Egg: Stir in the granulated sugar, egg yolk, and vanilla extract until the mixture comes together to form a dough. You may need to knead it gently just until incorporated. Be cautious not to overwork the dough.
3. Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps to firm it up and makes it easier to roll out later.
4. Roll Out the Dough: Once chilled, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 3mm thick.
5. Cut Out Cookies: Using cookie cutters, cut out shapes from the rolled dough. For half of the cookies, cut a smaller shape in the center of each to create a window for the fruit preserve to show through.
6. Bake the Cookies: Place the cut-out cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake them in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove them from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
7. Assemble the Koláčky: Once cooled, spread a layer of fruit preserves on the solid cookies. Then, gently place the cookies with cut-out centers on top to create a sandwich.
8. Finish and Serve: Dust the assembled Linecké Koláčky with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. These cookies are best enjoyed fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for several days.

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Perníčky

Perníčky, or Czech gingerbread cookies, are a traditional festive delight enjoyed during the Christmas season. These spiced cookies are known for their warm flavors from a mixture of honey, molasses, and aromatic spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and allspice. Often decorated with icing, Perníčky not only taste delicious but also add a beautiful touch to holiday cookie platters.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, ground allspice, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This can take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer.
3. Add Honey and Egg: Mix in the honey and egg to the creamed butter and sugar mixture until well combined.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is sticky, you can add a little more flour until it reaches the right consistency.
5. Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight. Chilling helps the flavors develop and makes it easier to roll out.
6. Roll Out the Dough: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 5mm thick.
7. Cut Out Cookies: Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes from the rolled dough. Place the cut-out cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Remove them from the oven and allow them to cool on a wire rack.
9. Decorate the Perníčky: Once completely cooled, prepare the icing by mixing icing sugar with a small amount of water until it reaches a thick but spreadable consistency. Use a piping bag or a small spatula to decorate the cookies as desired.
10. Store or Serve: Perníčky can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for several weeks, allowing the flavors to deepen. Enjoy these spiced cookies as a sweet holiday treat!

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Makové Koláče

Makové Koláče, or poppy seed pastries, are a beloved traditional Czech treat often enjoyed during festive occasions, particularly at Christmas. These delightful pastries are filled with a sweet poppy seed mixture and can be made into various shapes, from small rolls to larger pastries. Their rich, nutty flavor and tender dough make them an irresistible addition to any holiday cookie platter.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Yeast Mixture: In a small bowl, combine warm milk (about 37°C or 98°F) with active dry yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, melted unsalted butter, sugar, salt, and egg. Once the yeast mixture is ready, add it to the bowl. Mix everything together until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Shape the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Prepare the Poppy Seed Filling: In a medium bowl, combine ground poppy seeds, honey, and vanilla extract. Optionally, add a splash of milk to achieve the desired consistency. Mix until well combined.
6. Shape the Pastries: After the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 0.5 cm thick. Cut the dough into rectangles (about 10 x 5 cm). Place a spoonful of poppy seed filling on one side of each rectangle, then fold the dough over to create a pocket. Pinch the edges to seal.
7. Place on Baking Sheets: Line baking sheets with parchment paper. Transfer the filled koláče to the sheets, spacing them apart.
8. Second Rise: Cover the koláče with a kitchen towel and allow them to rise again for about 30 minutes.
9. Preheat the Oven: While the koláče are rising, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
10. Bake the Koláče: Once they’ve risen, bake the koláče in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown.
11. Cool and Dust with Sugar: Remove the koláče from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar on top if desired.

Enjoy these delicious Makové Koláče with a cup of tea or coffee as part of your festive celebrations!

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Ořechové Cukroví

Ořechové Cukroví, or nut cookies, are a traditional Czech sweet often enjoyed during Christmas and other festive occasions. These delightful treats are typically made with finely ground nuts, such as walnuts or hazelnuts, which lend a rich flavor and a delicate texture. They are often sandwiched together with jam or sprinkled with powdered sugar, making them a favorite among both children and adults.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, ground nuts, and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too crumbly, incorporate a small amount of cold water until it holds together.
4. Shape the Cookies: Take small pieces of the dough and roll them into balls about the size of a walnut. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart as they will expand slightly while baking. Gently flatten each ball with the palm of your hand or the bottom of a glass.
5. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep a close eye on them to prevent over-baking.
6. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Fill the Cookies: Once cooled, spread a layer of jam on the bottom of one cookie and sandwich it with another. Continue this process until all cookies are filled.
8. Finish with Powdered Sugar: Dust the assembled cookies with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Enjoy your homemade Ořechové Cukroví with a cup of tea or coffee, sharing them with friends and family during the festive season!

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Springerle

Springerle are traditional German cookies that have become beloved in various Central European countries, including the Czech Republic. These anise-flavored cookies are known for their beautiful designs, which are created using intricate molds. Springerle have a unique texture that’s both firm and slightly chewy, making them perfect for snacking and gifting during the holiday season.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare Molds: Gather your Springerle molds or wooden boards with designs. Dust them lightly with powdered sugar to prevent sticking.
2. Beat the Eggs and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes thick, pale, and fluffy—about 10 minutes.
3. Add Flavors: Mix in the anise seeds, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Stir gently to combine all the flavors evenly into the egg mixture.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture while stirring, until a smooth, stiff dough forms.
5. Rest the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 1 hour at room temperature. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and will help with shaping the cookies.
6. Roll and Shape the Cookies: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use the molded stamp to press into the dough, creating decorative shapes. Carefully remove any excess dough around the shape.
7. Transfer to Baking Sheets: Place the formed cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they are spaced apart slightly.
8. Dry the Cookies: Let the cookies dry at room temperature for at least 24 hours. This step is essential as it helps the cookies retain their designs while baking.
9. Bake the Cookies: Preheat your oven to 160°C (325°F). Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the bottoms are lightly golden.
10. Cool and Store: After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Once cooled, store them in an airtight container.

Enjoy your homemade Springerle with a warm beverage or share them as a delightful gift!

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Skořicové Cukroví

Skořicové Cukroví, also known as Czech Cinnamon Cookies, are a delightful holiday treat that infuses the warm, aromatic flavors of cinnamon into a tender, sweet dough. Often shaped into festive forms, these cookies are not only a popular choice during Christmas but also a favorite for any occasion where a hint of spice can enhance the mood. They can be enjoyed on their own or elegantly decorated with icing.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add Eggs and Flavors: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and ground cinnamon until fully incorporated.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This guarantees that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This aids in firming up the dough, making it easier to roll out.
6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) while the dough chills.
7. Roll Out the Dough: After chilling, lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.
8. Transfer to Baking Sheets: Place the cut-out cookies onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between each cookie to allow for spreading.
9. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should remain soft.
10. Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, generously dust the cookies with powdered sugar for an extra festive touch.

Enjoy your Skořicové Cukroví with a cup of tea or coffee, or gift them to friends and family as a sweet holiday treat!

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Mázik

Mázik is a traditional Czech Christmas treat, often described as a sweet spread that is perfect for spreading on various baked goods or simply enjoyed on its own. It has a delightful richness, often made with nuts and spices that showcase the flavors of the holiday season. Mázik makes a wonderful addition to any holiday table and can be used creatively in many desserts.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Confirm that all ingredients are at room temperature, especially the softened butter. This will make it easier to cream together with the sugar.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
3. Incorporate Honey and Flavors: Once the butter and sugar are creamed, add the honey, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon into the bowl. Mix until these ingredients are well blended.
4. Mix in Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the finely ground walnuts, cocoa powder, and salt to the butter mixture. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold in the dry ingredients gently until the mixture forms a thick paste.
5. Chill the Mixture: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mazík mixture for at least 30 minutes. This will help it firm up, making it easier to spread later or use as a filling.
6. Serve: Once chilled, take the mazík out of the refrigerator. It can be used right away as a spread on gingerbread, pancakes, or toast. Alternatively, it can be formed into small balls or shapes for presentation and served as a treat during the holiday season.
7. Storage: Store any leftover mazík in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for several weeks and will become firmer as it cools.

Enjoy this delicious Czech festive spread as part of your holiday celebrations!

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Kakaové Cukroví

Kakaové cukroví, or cocoa cookies, are a beloved Czech Christmas treat known for their rich chocolate flavor and delightful texture. These cookies are often made with a combination of cocoa powder and nuts, giving them a unique taste that is perfect for holiday gatherings. Their simple preparation makes them an excellent choice for both novice and seasoned bakers looking to add a touch of sweetness to their festive celebrations.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). This guarantees that your cookies bake evenly.
2. Prepare Baking Sheets: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and make cleanup easier.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes creamy and pale in color, approximately 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Egg and Vanilla: Once the butter and sugar are well combined, add the egg and vanilla extract to the mixture. Continue to mix until fully incorporated.
5. Sift Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. Sifting helps remove lumps and guarantees the dry ingredients are evenly mixed.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients in the mixing bowl. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
7. Fold in Nuts: Gently fold in the chopped nuts using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
8. Shape the Cookies: Using a tablespoon or a cookie scoop, drop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 5cm (2 inches) apart.
9. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are firm but the centers remain slightly soft.
10. Cool Down: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Dust with Powdered Sugar: After the cookies are completely cool, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a festive finish.
12. Storage: Store the cooled kakaové cukroví in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last up to a week, making them a delightful treat to share during the holiday season.

Enjoy these rich and decadent Czech cocoa cookies with your family and friends during your Christmas celebrations!

Křehké Cukroví

Křehké cukroví, or delicate cookies, are a cherished Czech Christmas treat known for their buttery flavor and meltingly soft texture. Often flavored with vanilla or lemon zest and sometimes filled with jam or nuts, these cookies are perfect for sharing with family and friends during the festive season. Their simplicity and delightful taste make them a favorite among both young and old.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 170°C (340°F). This guarantees that your cookies bake evenly and come out perfectly golden.
2. Prepare Baking Sheets: Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking and simplify the cleanup process.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat them together on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take around 3-5 minutes.
4. Add Egg Yolks and Flavorings: Add the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using) to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well until everything is fully combined.
5. Sift and Add Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a dough forms.
6. Chill the Dough (if necessary): If the dough feels too soft to handle, chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to make it easier to shape.
7. Shape the Cookies: Take small portions of the dough and roll them into small balls, or use a cookie cutter to create your desired shapes. If using a filling, flatten a ball of dough, place a small amount of jam or nut filling in the center, and fold the edges over to encase it.
8. Place on Baking Sheets: Arrange the shaped dough balls or filled cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each one to allow for spreading.
9. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden around the edges. They should still feel soft to the touch.
10. Cool and Dust with Powdered Sugar: 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 cooled, dust the tops with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Enjoy these delightful Křehké cukroví with your loved ones during the holiday season!