Wienerstube Cookies

Wienerstube Cookies are a delightful treat inspired by traditional Austrian baking. These buttery, nutty cookies are perfect for any occasion, from holiday celebrations to simple afternoon tea. Their melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor make them a favorite among cookie enthusiasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Wienerstube Cookies are not only delicious but also easy to make. With a few simple ingredients and a straightforward process, you can create a batch of these delightful cookies that are sure to impress. Their elegant appearance and exquisite taste make them perfect for gifting or serving at gatherings.

Who Is This Recipe For?

This recipe is perfect for:

• Fans of traditional European baked goods.
• Home bakers looking for an easy and elegant cookie recipe.
• Anyone wanting to add a touch of sophistication to their cookie tray.
• Those who appreciate nutty, buttery flavors in their desserts.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Wienerstube Cookies, you will need:

For the Cookies:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup finely ground walnuts or almonds
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for dusting)

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need the following equipment to prepare this recipe:

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Cooling rack
• Sifter or fine mesh sieve

Directions

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
   • Gradually add the all-purpose flour, finely ground walnuts or almonds, and salt. Mix until a soft dough forms.
2. Chill the Dough:
   • Cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps to firm up the dough, making it easier to shape.
3. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats.
4. Shape the Cookies:
   • Roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. Place the balls on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
   • Flatten each ball slightly with the bottom of a glass or your hand to form a disc.
5. Bake the Cookies:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers should still be pale.
6. Cool and Dust:
   • Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.
   • Once the cookies are completely cool, dust them generously with powdered sugar using a sifter or fine mesh sieve.

Tips and Tricks

• Room Temperature Butter: Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming and a smooth dough.
• Nut Substitutes: You can use any finely ground nuts you prefer, such as pecans or hazelnuts, to vary the flavor.
• Chilling the Dough: Don’t skip chilling the dough; it helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week. These cookies also freeze well; place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, and they’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Pairings

Wienerstube Cookies pair wonderfully with:

• A hot cup of coffee or tea
• A glass of milk
• A dessert wine, such as Moscato or Riesling

FAQs

Q: Can I make the dough ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Q: Can I use salted butter? A: If you use salted butter, reduce the added salt to 1/8 teaspoon.

Q: What if I don’t have a sifter? A: You can use a fine mesh sieve to dust the powdered sugar over the cookies.

Q: Can I add other flavors to the cookies? A: Yes, you can add a teaspoon of almond extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a different flavor profile.

Q: How can I make the cookies more festive? A: Decorate the cookies with a drizzle of melted chocolate or a sprinkle of colored sugar for a festive touch.

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