Ella's Nut Cookies

To prepare these delicious apricot jam cookies, we start by combining the basic ingredients. In a large bowl, we add flour and butter. Using our palms, we rub the two ingredients together until we achieve a texture similar to fine crumbs. This step is essential as it helps to integrate the butter into the flour, creating a tender dough. We continue by adding powdered sugar, the egg, lemon zest, and lemon juice. We mix well, then knead until the dough becomes homogeneous and elastic. It is important not to knead too much to maintain the light texture of the cookies.

Once the dough is ready, we wrap it in plastic wrap and leave it in the fridge for a short period, usually an hour or even overnight. This step allows the flavors to intensify and makes the dough easier to roll out. Personally, I prefer to prepare the dough in the evening so that I have everything ready for baking the next day.

The next day, we take the dough out of the fridge and roll it out on a floured surface until it reaches a thickness of about 2-3 mm. Using a wine glass or a special cookie cutter, we cut circles from the dough. It is important to be careful not to let the dough get too soft, as it will be harder to handle. After we have cut all the circles, we choose half of them and make a small cut in the center, either with a thimble or a smaller cookie cutter, to create an interesting shape.

Once we have the prepared cookies, we brush the cut circles with egg white, which will help to stick the crushed walnuts. We generously sprinkle crushed walnuts over them, adding extra texture and flavor. Then, we place all the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and bake them in the preheated oven at a moderate heat until they turn golden and appetizing.

After taking them out of the oven, we let the cookies cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, we can assemble them in pairs, sticking them together with a generous layer of apricot jam. This jam not only adds moisture but also a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements each cookie. Finally, we dust with powdered sugar, either plain or mixed with vanilla and lemon zest, for a fresh and aromatic taste. These cookies are perfect to be served at a party or enjoyed with a cup of tea, being a delight that will please anyone!

 Ingredients: 300 g flour, 200 g butter, 100 g powdered sugar, 1 whole egg, zest and juice of a large lemon, apricot jam, crushed walnuts for decoration, egg white for brushing.

 Tags:  eggs unt flour sugar fruits lemon nut christmas and new year's recipes vegetarian recipes recipes for children cookies