Childhood Biscuits
Childhood Spritz Cookies: A Nostalgic Recipe Full of Flavor and Memories
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 20-25 cookies
In childhood, the aroma of freshly baked cookies was undoubtedly one of the most delightful memories. These spritz cookies, with a slightly crispy texture and a decadent chocolate filling, often tempted us to savor every bite. This recipe is a tribute to those happy days, while also being personalized to bring a touch of originality.
The history of this recipe stretches back through the memories of several generations, being a beloved treat in many households. Spritz cookies are easy to make, and the secret lies in the proper mixing of ingredients and the use of a special device that gives them their distinctive shape. Now, let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the cookies:
- 750 g flour
- 200 g sugar
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons lard or margarine
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- 200 ml lukewarm milk
- A pinch of salt
- 1 packet baking powder (Dr. Oetker)
- 1 packet vanilla sugar (Dr. Oetker)
- ½ teaspoon grated lemon zest (Kotanyi)
For the filling:
- A few teaspoons of chocolate cream
For the glaze:
- 100 g milk chocolate (recommended: Milka)
- 100 ml liquid cream
Step by Step
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by bringing all the ingredients to room temperature. This is an essential step for achieving a uniform and flavorful dough.
2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder, sugar, salt, vanilla sugar, and lemon zest. This dry ingredient mixture will give the cookies a pleasant aroma and a consistent texture.
3. Incorporating the wet ingredients: Add the lard or margarine cut into small cubes and crumble well with your fingers to achieve a homogeneous mixture. Then, add the egg and sour cream. Mix gently until everything is combined.
4. Adding the milk: Gradually incorporate the milk, mixing continuously. Do this alternately with the remaining flour until you achieve an elastic dough that doesn’t stick to your hands. It’s important not to overdo it with the milk; add just enough as needed.
5. Shaping the cookies: Once the dough is ready, use a special cookie device (or a meat grinder with the appropriate attachment) to shape the cookies. Form cookies about 4-5 cm in diameter and place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper.
6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake the cookies for 20 minutes or until they turn slightly golden around the edges. Don’t leave them in the oven too long, as they will become too crunchy.
7. Preparing the glaze: While the cookies are baking, prepare the glaze. Melt the chocolate over a double boiler, then add the liquid cream. Mix well until you achieve a smooth and glossy consistency.
8. Filling the cookies: Once the cookies have cooled, fill them two by two with the chocolate cream. You can use a teaspoon or a piping bag to ensure the filling is even.
9. Glazing: Using a brush, coat the tops of the cookies with the chocolate glaze. This step not only adds an elegant appearance but also enhances the flavor.
10. Serving: The cookies can be served immediately, or you can dust them with powdered sugar, just like mom used to do. This version is perfect for bringing a touch of childhood nostalgia.
Tips & Tricks
- Chocolate-free version: If you prefer, you can fill the cookies with jam or vanilla cream to diversify the flavors.
- Flavored cookies: Instead of lemon zest, you can use orange zest or even a pinch of cinnamon for a more exotic taste.
- Storing the cookies: The cookies keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. If you want to preserve them longer, I recommend freezing them.
Nutritional Benefits
These cookies contain simple and natural ingredients such as flour, egg, and sour cream, providing a good source of carbohydrates and proteins. Although they are sweet, moderate consumption won’t significantly impact your diet. Plus, you can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different type of flour? Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend, but you will need to adjust the liquid amounts.
- How can I make the cookies less caloric? You can reduce the amount of sugar and fats, but the result will differ in terms of texture and taste.
- What can I serve the cookies with? This dessert pairs perfectly with a cup of fragrant tea or a glass of cold milk.
Conclusion
These spritz cookies are not just a recipe; they are a gateway to memories filled with love and family warmth. Making them becomes an opportunity to reconnect with loved ones, especially if you cook together with little ones. Whether you choose to enjoy them plain or with an attractive glaze, each bite will be a true delight. So, embrace this recipe and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!
Ingredients: for the cookies: 750 g flour 200 g sugar 1 egg 2 tbsp lard/margarine 2 tbsp sour cream 200 ml warm milk a pinch of salt 1 packet of baking powder Dr.Oetker 1 packet of vanilla sugar Dr. Oetker 1/2 tsp finely grated lemon peel Kotanyi for the filling: a few teaspoons of chocolate cream for the glaze: 100 g milk chocolate (I used Milka) 100 ml liquid cream
