11 Romanian Christmas Cookies Eastern European

Cozonac – Sweet Bread With Nuts and Dried Fruit

Cozonac is a traditional Romanian sweet bread often enjoyed during the Christmas season. This delightful bread is known for its soft texture, rich flavor, and a sweet filling made with nuts, cocoa, and dried fruits that makes it a festive treat. Cozonac is typically braided and baked to a beautiful golden brown, perfect for sharing with family and friends during the holidays.

Cooking Steps:

1. Proof the Yeast: In a small bowl, warm up 100 ml of milk (not too hot, just warm enough) and mix in 1 tablespoon of sugar and the active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and the remaining milk. Mix using a spatula or your hands until the dough comes together.
3. Knead the Dough: Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 10–15 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook for this process.
4. First Rise: Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Cover it with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–2 hours or until it has doubled in size.
5. Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, mix the ground nuts, cocoa powder, dried fruit, and lemon zest. Add in a little additional sugar to taste, if desired.
6. Shape the Cozonac: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll out one portion on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle, about 1 cm thick. Spread half of the nut and cocoa filling evenly over the surface of the dough. Roll the dough tightly into a log shape.
7. Braiding the Bread: Take the rolled dough and cut it lengthwise down the middle, exposing the filling. Twist or braid the two halves together and place them into a greased loaf pan. Repeat the process with the second portion of dough and filling.
8. Second Rise: Cover the loaf pans with a kitchen towel and let the cozonaci rise again for about 30-40 minutes until they increase in size.
9. Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
10. Egg Wash: Just before baking, beat an egg in a small bowl and brush it over the top of each loaf for a golden finish.
11. Bake: Place the loaves in the oven and bake for about 45–50 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
12. Cool: Once baked, remove the cozonaci from the oven and let them cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Cozonac is best served sliced, perhaps with a dusting of powdered sugar on top. Enjoy this sweet, festive delight with family and friends!

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Lebkuchen – Spiced Gingerbread Cookies

Lebkuchen are traditional German spiced gingerbread cookies, often enjoyed during the Christmas season. These delightful treats come in various shapes and sizes, often decorated with icing or coated with chocolate. Packed with warming spices such as cinnamon and cloves, and sometimes featuring nuts and dried fruits, Lebkuchen is a holiday favorite that brings comfort and joy in every bite.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the honey and sugar. Heat gently until the honey and sugar are dissolved, then let it cool slightly.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, ground almonds or walnuts, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
3. Combine Ingredients: Once the honey-sugar mixture is cool, add the eggs and lemon zest. Mix well. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a stiff dough forms.
4. Chill the Dough: Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Shape the Cookies: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1 cm thick. Use cookie cutters to cut out various shapes. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them as they may spread slightly.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12–15 minutes or until the cookies are firm but not overbaked. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
8. Cool: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
9. Decorate: Once cooled, you can decorate the Lebkuchen with icing sugar mixed with water to create a glaze, or use the icing to create designs. Optionally, add nuts or candied fruits on top for decoration.
10. Storage: Store the Lebkuchen in an airtight container. They get better over time as the flavors continue to meld together, making them perfect for holiday gifting or enjoying throughout the season.

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Vanillekipferl – Vanilla Crescent Cookies

Vanillekipferl, or vanilla crescent cookies, are traditional Austrian sweet treats that are popular during the Christmas season. These buttery, almond-flavored cookies are shaped into delicate crescents and dusted with powdered sugar, giving them a beautiful and festive appearance. Their lovely aroma and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them a beloved holiday delicacy.

Cooking Steps:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter with the sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and egg yolk, and mix well to combine.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, baking powder, and salt.
3. Mix Ingredients: Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Chill the Dough: Once the dough is well combined, form it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will make it easier to handle when shaping the cookies.
5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Shape the Cookies: Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Take small portions of the dough and roll them into logs about 1-2 inches long, then curve them into crescent shapes. Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each one.
7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overbaking.
8. Cool: 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.
9. Dust with Sugar: Once the cookies are completely cool, generously dust them with powdered sugar for that beautiful finishing touch.

Enjoy your homemade Vanillekipferl as a delightful treat during the holiday season!

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Biscuiti Cu Mure – Blackberry Cookies

Biscuiti Cu Mure, or blackberry cookies, are delightful Romanian treats perfect for any occasion, especially during the festive season. These cookies are soft and chewy, bursting with the natural flavor of blackberries, making them a sweet and tangy snack that pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This may take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer or a whisk.
3. Add Egg and Vanilla: Crack the egg into the butter mixture, then add the vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are well combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This will guarantee that the leavening agent is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
5. Mix Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix; it’s okay if there are a few lumps.
6. Fold in Blackberries: Carefully fold the fresh blackberries into the dough. Be gentle to avoid crushing the berries too much, which helps maintain their shape and provides bursts of flavor in the cookies.
7. Scoop the Dough: Using a spoon or a cookie scoop, drop spoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading as they bake.
8. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden and the centers look set.
9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Enjoy your Biscuiti Cu Mure, which are soft and flavorful delights that add a special touch to your cookie platter during the holiday season!

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Fursecuri Cu Nută – Walnut Cookies

Fursecuri Cu Nută, or walnut cookies, are a traditional Romanian treat known for their rich nutty flavor and crumbly texture. These delightful cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or simply enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee. The combination of ground walnuts and a hint of vanilla offers a comforting and indulgent experience that will have everyone reaching for more.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to guarantee easy removal of the cookies later.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, combine the unsalted butter and powdered sugar. Beat them together using an electric mixer or whisk until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
3. Incorporate the Egg and Vanilla: Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully blended.
4. Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the ground walnuts, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Gently mix until just combined. Be cautious not to overwork the dough, as this can result in tougher cookies.
6. Scoop the Dough: Use a spoon or cookie scoop to drop portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving enough space (about 2 inches apart) for the cookies to spread during baking.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 15-18 minutes. The cookies should be lightly golden around the edges, and the centers will appear firm.
8. Cool the Cookies: After baking, remove the cookies from the oven and let them rest on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Gently transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

These Fursecuri Cu Nută are a delightful treat, bringing warmth and sweetness to your festive celebrations. Enjoy them fresh, or store them in an airtight container for later!

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Turtă Dulce – Honey Cake Cookies

Turtă Dulce, or honey cake cookies, are a cherished Romanian dessert known for their warm spices and delightful sweetness. These soft, aromatic cookies are made with honey, giving them a unique flavor that evokes the cozy spirit of the holiday season. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying as a treat alongside a hot beverage, Turtă Dulce will undoubtedly be a star on your festive dessert table.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to facilitate easy cookie removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger, and salt. This guarantees the spices and leavening agent are evenly distributed in the dough.
3. Melt Butter and Sugar: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the unsalted butter and brown sugar together. Stir gently until both are well combined and the mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Add Honey and Egg: Once the butter-sugar mixture has cooled, whisk in the honey and egg until fully incorporated. Then add the vanilla extract, mixing again until all wet ingredients are combined.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until a cohesive dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tougher cookies.
6. Scoop the Dough: Using a spoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart. The dough will spread a little during baking.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and lightly golden around the edges. They may seem soft in the center, but they will firm up as they cool.
8. Cool the Cookies: After removing the cookies from the oven, allow them to cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

These Turtă Dulce cookies are sure to bring joy and flavor to your festivities! Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or stored in an airtight container for later, they make a delightful addition to any holiday celebration.

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Răzăluțe – Savory Cheese Cookies

Răzăluțe are delightful savory cheese cookies that are popular in Romania, often served as an appetizer or snack. These crispy, cheesy bites are easy to make and have a rich flavor thanks to the combination of cheese and butter. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, Răzăluțe can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the cookies from sticking.
2. Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the grated cheese with the unsalted butter. Use a fork or your hands to mash the ingredients together until well blended.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper. This guarantees that the leavening agent is evenly distributed.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Add the cheese and butter mixture to the dry ingredients. Then, add the whole egg and the milk. Mix everything together until it forms a soft, cohesive dough. If the dough seems too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
5. Shape the Cookies: On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 1 cm thick. Use a cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into desired shapes (squares, rounds, or festive shapes).
6. Prepare for Baking: Place the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are spaced about 2 inches apart. Beat the egg yolk in a small bowl and brush it over the tops of the cookies for a beautiful golden finish.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and have puffed slightly.
8. Cool and Serve: 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. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy your Răzăluțe as a savory treat with friends and family during the festive season!

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PlăCintă Cu Brânză – Cheese Pastry Cookies

Plăcintă cu Brânză has a long-standing place in Romanian culinary tradition, often enjoyed during festive occasions or as a snack. These delightful cheese pastries feature a flaky crust enveloping a rich, creamy cheese filling, making them a perfect treat for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, unsalted butter (cut into small pieces), baking powder, salt, and black pepper. Using your fingertips or a pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat the egg and sour cream in a separate bowl. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough is sticky, you can add a little more flour.
4. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps to firm it up, making it easier to roll out.
5. Prepare the Cheese Filling: In a bowl, mix together the fresh cheese, salt, and black pepper. Make certain the cheese is well combined and smooth.
6. Roll Out the Dough: Once chilled, take the dough out of the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to about 0.5 cm thickness.
7. Cut and Fill: Cut the dough into squares or circles, about 10 cm in size. Place a spoonful of the cheese filling in the center of each shape. Be careful not to overfill.
8. Seal the Pastries: For squares, fold the dough over diagonally to form a triangle. For circles, fold in half. Press the edges firmly together to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for decoration and to guarantee they stay closed during baking.
9. Brush with Egg Wash: Place the pastries on the prepared baking sheet. Beat the egg yolk and brush it over the tops of the pastries. Optionally, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added flavor.
10. Bake the Pastries: Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
11. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the pastries from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for a few minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature as a delicious snack or appetizer.

Enjoy your Plăcintă cu Brânză with friends and family during this festive season!

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Crinkle Cookies – Chocolate Powdered Sugar Cookies

Crinkle cookies, known for their delightful cracked appearance, are a classic holiday treat that pairs rich chocolate flavor with a soft, chewy texture. Coated in powdered sugar, these cookies not only look festive but also provide a deliciously sweet surprise with every bite. Perfect for Christmas gatherings, they are certain to be a hit with family and friends.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F) and lining two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until evenly combined. Set it aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add Vanilla and Egg: Add the vanilla extract and egg to the butter-sugar mixture, and continue to beat until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Avoid over-mixing; the dough should be soft and slightly sticky.
6. Chill the Dough: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the dough for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to shape the cookies and help them maintain their form while baking.
7. Shape the Cookies: Once chilled, use a spoon or cookie scoop to portion out the dough. Roll each piece into a ball about 2.5 cm in diameter.
8. Coat with Powdered Sugar: Place powdered sugar in a small bowl. Roll each dough ball in the powdered sugar until fully coated. Use a generous amount to guarantee a good coating.
9. Arrange on Baking Sheets: Place the coated cookie dough balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 5 cm apart to allow for spreading during baking.
10. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes. The edges should be set but the centers will appear slightly soft.
11. Cool the Cookies: 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.
12. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, you can dust them again with powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy these delightful chocolate crinkle cookies with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa!

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Coptuțe – Miniature Fruit-filled Tarts

Coptuțe are delightful miniature fruit-filled tarts that are a cherished treat in Romanian holiday gatherings. These tiny pastries are characterized by their buttery, flaky crust and a variety of sweet fillings, often made from fresh or preserved fruits. They’re the perfect bite-sized dessert that will add a delightful touch to your Christmas table.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) and greasing a mini muffin tin or tartlet mold with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until well incorporated.
3. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until a smooth dough forms. The dough should be soft and not sticky; if needed, you can add a bit more flour.
4. Chill the Dough: Roll the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. Chilling the dough will make it easier to work with and help maintain its shape during baking.
5. Shape the Tart Shells: Once the dough is chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough out to about 5mm thickness. Cut circles from the dough using a cookie cutter or a glass, and place each circle into the prepared muffin tin, gently pressing it into the bottom and up the sides.
6. Fill the Tarts: Spoon a small amount of your chosen fruit filling into the center of each tart shell. Be careful not to overfill, as the filling can bubble over while baking.
7. Bake: Place the filled muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tart shells are golden brown around the edges and the filling is bubbly.
8. Cool: Once baked, remove the tarts from the oven and let them cool in the tin for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Serve: Once fully cooled, your coptuțe are ready to serve. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature and are delightful with a dusting of powdered sugar on top, if desired.

Pandișpan – Sponge Cake Cookies

Pandișpan is a classic Romanian dessert that takes the form of a light and airy sponge cake, often enjoyed during festive occasions and holidays. This versatile cake is perfect for multiple dessert presentations, whether served plain, layered with creams, or turned into delightful cookies. With its delicate texture and subtle sweetness, Pandișpan cookies bring a touch of elegance to your holiday table.

Cooking Steps:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F) and lining a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Eggs: In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on high speed for about 8-10 minutes until it becomes thick, pale, and doubles in volume.
3. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Once the egg mixture is ready, gently fold in the dry ingredients using a spatula. Be careful not to deflate the batter; fold until just combined.
4. Add Vanilla Extract: Gently stir in the vanilla extract until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
5. Shape the Cookies: Using two teaspoons or a small cookie scoop, portion out small dollops of the batter onto the lined baking tray, leaving enough space between each for spreading.
6. Bake: Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden and the tops look slightly springy to the touch.
7. Cool: Once baked, remove the tray from the oven and let the Pandișpan cookies cool on the tray for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once the cookies have cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar for an elegant touch if desired.

Enjoy these soft and fluffy Pandișpan cookies as a delightful treat during your festive celebrations!