Schweizer Glanzplätzchen

Background

Schweizer Glanzplätzchen, a delightful Swiss holiday cookie, are known for their shiny, glazed appearance and rich, nutty flavor. Traditionally prepared during the Christmas season, these cookies have been a staple in Swiss households for generations. Often served alongside other pastries during festive gatherings, their glossy finish and sweet aroma make them a must-have dessert. The name 'Glanzplätzchen' translates to 'shiny cookies', highlighting their distinctive look achieved through glazing.

History of Schweizer Glanzplätzchen

Originating in Switzerland, these cookies were initially popularized in the alpine regions. They were inspired by the abundance of local ingredients such as hazelnuts and almonds. Over time, the recipe spread throughout Europe and has undergone slight variations, but the essential characteristics remain. The heritage of using nuts in cookies is believed to be influenced by medieval trades and the cultivation of nut trees in the region.

Ingredients

• Hazelnuts - 200g, finely ground
• Almonds - 100g, finely ground
• Sugar - 150g
• All-purpose flour - 250g
• Unsalted butter - 200g, softened
• Egg - 1 large, for the dough
• Egg yolk - 1, for glazing
• Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
• Baking powder - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
• Apricot jam - 3 tablespoons, for glazing

Preparation

Preparing the Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. In another bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and beat until smooth.
4. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture, then stir in the hazelnuts and almonds until a soft dough forms.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour to firm up.

Shaping and Baking

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to approximately 1/4 inch thick.
3. Using a cookie cutter, cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheets.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-baking.
5. Once baked, transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

Glazing the Cookies

1. For the glaze, gently heat the apricot jam until smooth. You can pass it through a sieve for a finer consistency.
2. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk.
3. Brush a thin layer of apricot jam on each cooled cookie.
4. Follow with a gentle brushing of egg yolk on top, which will give the cookies their distinctive shine.
5. Allow the glaze to set for a few hours at room temperature, or speed up the process by placing them in the oven at a low temperature for a few minutes.

Enjoying Schweizer Glanzplätzchen

These delightful cookies are best enjoyed with a mug of hot chocolate, spiced mulled wine, or a cup of coffee, bringing out their nutty flavors beautifully. Serve them at holiday events, family gatherings, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Schweizer Glanzplätzchen captivate with their gloss and evoke a sense of warmth and celebration, making them a cherished part of the Swiss culinary tradition.