Bavarian Snowflakes

Bavarian Snowflakes, known as "Schneeflocken" in German, are a delightful type of cookie that melt in your mouth, embodying the essence of winter's serenity. Originating from the snow-capped mountains of Bavaria, Germany, these cookies are a traditional treat during the Christmas season and a favorite in many households across Europe. They are renowned for their delicate texture and subtle, comforting flavors. Thought to have been inspired by the pristine snowflakes that fall in Bavarian regions, these cookies capture the whimsical beauty and joy of winter.

Ingredients

• Flour - 2 cups
• Butter - 1 cup, softened
• Powdered Sugar - 1 cup
• Cornstarch - 1/2 cup
• Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
• Almond Extract - 1/4 teaspoon

Preparation and Cooking Process

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Ensure that the butter is softened, as it will need to be creamed with the powdered sugar. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures an even and consistent heat for your cookies. Line your baking sheets with parchment paper to avoid sticking and for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Mixing the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with the powdered sugar until you achieve a light and fluffy texture. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. Once fluffy, add in the vanilla extract and almond extract. Mix until well incorporated. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and salt. Slowly add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.

Step 3: Shaping the Cookies

With the dough ready, it’s time to shape the cookies. Take small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them at least 2 inches apart to allow room for spreading. For a traditional touch, use the back of a fork to gently press each dough ball and create a soft crisscross pattern.

Step 4: Baking the Cookies

Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are slightly golden. Be sure not to overbake as these cookies are meant to be soft and buttery. For precise timing, consider using a cooking timer to ensure perfect results. Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Enjoying Bavarian Snowflakes

Bavarian Snowflakes are best enjoyed while fresh, offering a melt-in-your-mouth sensation that pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. They are a perfect addition to any holiday cookie platter and can also be beautifully packaged as a homemade gift. For an extra festive touch, dust them lightly with additional powdered sugar to mimic the appearance of freshly fallen snow.

Tips and Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
• You can freeze the dough balls and bake them straight from the freezer, just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

Embrace the serene elegance of winter with these delightful Bavarian Snowflakes, and make your holiday season all the more special.