Classic Viennese Christmas Butter Cookies

Classic Viennese Christmas Butter Cookies

Viennese Christmas Butter Cookies 

A delicate, buttery treat inspired by the festive markets of Vienna, perfect for gifting or adding sparkle to your holiday table.

Ingredients:

  • 2 ½ cups (310 g) all-purpose flour

  • ½ tsp salt

  • 1 tsp baking powder

  • ¾ cup (170 g) unsalted European-style butter, softened

  • 1 cup (200 g) caster sugar

  • 1 large egg

  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

  • ½ tsp almond extract (or a few drops of rum essence for a traditional Austrian twist)

  • Zest of 1 organic lemon or orange

  • Optional decorations: royal icing, edible gold dust, crystal sugar, or festive sprinkles

Method:

  1. Prepare the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the citrus zest.

  2. Cream butter and sugar: Beat butter and sugar until pale and fluffy.

  3. Incorporate egg and extracts: Add the egg, vanilla, and almond or rum essence, mixing until smooth.

  4. Combine with dry ingredients: Fold in flour mixture until dough forms. Chill for at least 1 hour to ensure crisp, delicate cookies.

  5. Preheat oven: 180°C / 350°F, with baking trays lined with parchment.

  6. Roll and cut: Lightly flour surface and roll dough to ¼-inch thickness. Use festive cutters: stars, hearts, or classic Austrian shapes like bells or gingerbread motifs.

  7. Bake to perfection: 8–10 minutes, until the edges are just golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies tender.

  8. Decorate elegantly: Once cooled, adorn with royal icing, edible glitter, or fine sugar crystals for that signature Edelglas sparkle.

Tips:

  • Pair with a cup of spiced Glühwein or rich hot chocolate to evoke the feeling of a Viennese Christmas market.

  • For gifting, stack in a decorative tin or wrap in translucent paper tied with ribbon — a touch of European charm.

Zurück zum Blog