Brezelkrustenkekse

A Traditional German Delight

Brezelkrustenkekse, or pretzel-crust cookies, are a delightful blend of Austrian and Bavarian culinary traditions. These cookies are characterized by their salty-sweet flavors, bringing together the classic buttery taste of cookies with the distinctive salty crunch of a pretzel crust. They are popular treats during Oktoberfest and Christmas seasons in Germany.

The history of Brezelkrustenkekse dates back to the 19th century, when bakers in Southern Germany began experimenting with the fusion of salty pretzels and sweet cookie batter. Over the decades, they evolved into a beloved snack enjoyed all over the country.

Ingredients

• Flour - 2 cups
• Sugar - 1 cup
• Butter - 1 cup, softened
• Egg - 1 large
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
• Baking soda - 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
• Pretzels - 1 cup, crushed
• Chocolate chips - 1 cup

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the egg and the vanilla extract to the mixture, and beat until fully incorporated, ensuring a smooth consistency.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
5. Gently fold in the chocolate chips and crushed pretzels, ensuring even distribution throughout the dough.
6. Scoop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, spaced about 2 inches apart to allow for spreading.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown. Be sure to set a timer to avoid overbaking.

Cooking Process

The process of baking these cookies involves careful attention to the balance of flavors and textures. The pretzels provide a crunchy contrast to the soft and chewy chocolate cookie dough, while the subtle hint of salt enhances the sweetness of the sugar. It’s crucial to monitor the cooking time to prevent them from becoming too hard.

How to Enjoy

Brezelkrustenkekse are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the chocolate chips are still slightly melted. These cookies pair wonderfully with hot beverages like coffee or tea, making them the perfect treat for afternoon tea or a cozy evening. If serving guests, consider a display arrangement with additional pretzels on the side for those who prefer extra saltiness.