Cookies with cardamom and hazelnuts
Delicious cookies with cardamom and hazelnuts
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 24 cookies
Cardamom and hazelnut cookies are an excellent choice for any time of the day, whether you enjoy them in the company of friends or want to indulge in a flavorful dessert. Cardamom, an exotic spice, adds a unique and sophisticated note, while the hazelnuts provide a pleasant crunch, transforming these cookies into a must-try delight.
The history of cardamom is fascinating. Used for centuries in various cultures for its distinctive aroma, cardamom is often called 'the king of spices.' Its sweet, slightly minty aroma with citrus notes makes it a perfect ingredient in both sweet dishes and savory meals. Over time, cardamom has been valued for its therapeutic properties, being used in traditional medicine to improve digestion and add a touch of freshness.
Necessary ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 100 g of butter (at room temperature)
- A pinch of salt
- A few drops of rum essence
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tablespoons of milk
- Flour as needed (approximately 20 tablespoons)
- 100 g of unsalted hazelnuts, chopped
- 50 g of chocolate (for decoration)
Step 1: Prepare the dough
Start by beating the eggs with the sugar in a large bowl, using an electric mixer or a whisk. Mix until the mixture becomes fluffy and light yellow. Add the softened butter, lemon juice, milk, and rum essence, mixing well to incorporate all the ingredients.
Step 2: Combine the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and cardamom. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until you obtain a homogeneous dough. It is important not to over-knead, as the cookies will become less fluffy.
Step 3: Rest the dough
Once you have a smooth dough, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 20 minutes. This step is essential as it helps to firm up the butter and makes the dough easier to shape.
Step 4: Prepare the hazelnuts
Meanwhile, chop the hazelnuts into smaller pieces. They will add a crunchy texture to the cookies and also a rich flavor.
Step 5: Form the cookies
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until you obtain a sheet about 0.5 cm thick. Using cookie cutters or a knife, cut the dough into various shapes. Place the cookies on a baking tray lined with parchment paper or greased with oil and sprinkle a piece of hazelnut on each cookie, pressing them gently to stick into the dough.
Step 6: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the cookies for 20-25 minutes until they turn golden and slightly firm to the touch. Check them from time to time, as baking time may vary depending on the oven.
Step 7: Decorating
After removing them from the oven, let the cookies cool on a wire rack. Meanwhile, melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring to avoid burning. Use a teaspoon to decorate the cookies with melted chocolate, adding an element of elegance.
Step 8: Serving
These cookies are delicious alongside a cup of fragrant fruit tea or a mug of warm milk. Their fine taste perfectly complements the beverages, turning a simple snack into a moment of indulgence.
Practical tips:
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature for easier incorporation into the dough.
- Cardamom can be freshly ground for an even more intense aroma.
- You can substitute hazelnuts with walnuts or almonds, depending on your preferences.
- If you want a more intense flavor, add a little vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the dough.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use whole wheat flour? Yes, but it will change the texture of the cookies, making them denser.
- How can I store the cookies? Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will stay fresh for a few days.
- Can I freeze the cookies? Yes, you can freeze them in plastic bags. Let them thaw naturally at room temperature.
Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of cookies has approximately 120-150 calories, depending on their size. These cookies contain healthy fats from hazelnuts, which are rich in protein and antioxidants. Cardamom, in addition to its aroma, has anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, providing additional health benefits.
These cardamom and hazelnut cookies are more than just a simple dessert; they are an invitation to a refined culinary experience, full of flavors and textures. Try them and let yourself be carried away by their tastes!
Ingredients: 2 eggs, 4 tablespoons sugar, half a teaspoon cardamom, half a teaspoon baking powder, 100 g butter, a pinch of salt, a few drops of rum essence, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 tablespoons milk, flour as needed (approximately 20 tablespoons), 100 g unsalted nuts for decoration, 50 g chocolate for decoration.
