Nut-filled Cookies
Nut-Filled Cookies for Santa
These nut-filled cookies are not just a Christmas delicacy, but also a warm and joyful tradition. Each bite brings back memories of moments spent with loved ones during the holidays. With a crispy exterior and a rich, delicious cream inside, these cookies are perfect for offering to Santa or enjoying alongside a cup of fragrant tea. Let’s prepare them together!
Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 30 cookies
Ingredients:
For the shells:
- 3 large eggs
- 8 tablespoons of lard (or butter, if you prefer)
- 1 cup of sugar (about 200 g)
- 1 tablespoon of ammonia extinguished with vinegar
- Flour (about 500-550 g, as needed)
For the cream:
- 100 g sugar
- 200 g biscuits (preferably plain, without filling)
- 200 ml milk
- 70 g butter
- 2 tablespoons of cocoa
- Rum essence (to taste)
A bit of history:
These nut-filled cookies have a long history, being prepared in various corners of the world throughout the centuries. It is said that the tradition of making nut-shaped cookies began as a way to celebrate the arrival of winter and the winter holidays. Today, they are often given as gifts and symbolize generosity and joy during the holiday season.
Steps to achieve the perfect cookies:
1. Preparing the dough:
Start by cracking the 3 eggs into a large bowl. Add the sugar and lard. Using a mixer or a spatula, mix the ingredients well until you obtain a thick, homogeneous cream. It is important that the lard is at room temperature for better integration.
2. Adding the dry ingredients:
Add the ammonia extinguished with vinegar and begin to incorporate the flour gradually, mixing continuously. Continue adding flour until the dough becomes firm enough and does not stick to your hands. If desired, you can add grated orange or lemon zest for extra flavor.
3. Forming the balls:
Once the dough is ready, form balls of about 5 g (the size of a nut). Place them on a plate and refrigerate for 10 minutes. This will help firm up the dough, making it easier to handle.
4. Baking the shells:
Grease a mold with oil and heat it well on both sides. Place the dough balls in the mold, pressing them slightly to give them the desired shape. Bake the shells for 5 minutes, turning the mold occasionally to ensure even baking. After baking, turn the shells out into a bowl and continue with the remaining dough.
5. Preparing the cream:
In a small pot, add the sugar, milk, butter, and cocoa. Mix vigorously and place the pot over medium heat. Let the syrup boil for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Once cooled, add the rum essence. Make sure the syrup is well cooled before adding it to the biscuits.
6. Grinding the biscuits:
Grind the biscuits until they become a fine powder and place them in a bowl. Gradually add the syrup, mixing until you obtain a smooth and firm cream. If the cream is too soft, you can add more ground biscuits to thicken it.
7. Assembling the cookies:
Fill each shell with a bit of cream and join them two by two. If desired, you can roll them in powdered sugar for a more elegant appearance. This detail will give them an extra sweet taste and a special look.
Practical tips:
- Ingredient temperature: Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature to help achieve a smooth and fine texture.
- Baking time: Pay attention to the color of the shells; they should be lightly golden. Do not bake them too long, as they may dry out.
- Filling variations: You can experiment with different flavors for the cream, adding vanilla, almond essences, or even chopped nuts for extra texture.
- Serving: These cookies are excellent alongside a cup of fragrant tea or even a glass of milk, adding a nostalgic touch.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace lard with butter?
Yes, you can use butter instead of lard, but the texture will be slightly different.
- How can I store the cookies?
The cookies can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days. You can also freeze the shells and prepare the cream later.
- Can I make these cookies a few days before Christmas?
Absolutely! The cookies keep well, and the flavors intensify after a few days.
Nutritional benefits:
These cookies are a good source of carbohydrates and fats, providing you with the energy you need during the holiday season. The biscuits and cocoa also bring antioxidants and fiber, contributing to digestive health.
Conclusion:
These nut-filled cookies are more than just a simple dessert; they are part of holiday tradition and can become a favorite in your family. Whether you prepare them for Santa or just to indulge yourself, each step will bring you closer to a delicious result. So put on your cooking clothes, gather your ingredients, and let’s create delicious memories together! Enjoy!
Ingredients: Dough: 3 eggs, 8 tablespoons of lard, 1 cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of ammonia extinguished with vinegar, flour as needed (around 500-550 g). Cream: 100 g of sugar, 200 g of biscuits, 200 ml of milk, 70 g of butter, 2 tablespoons of cocoa, rum essence.
