20+ Moravian Christmas Cookies Recipe Cook Up Something Special!
Published on: Apr 15, 2024
Moravian Christmas cookies are a holiday tradition that brings warm memories and delicious flavors to households around the world. These delicate and aromatic cookies originated in the Moravian settlements of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, in the 18th century. The recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, and it continues to be a beloved treat during the Christmas season. In this article, we will dive into the history of Moravian Christmas cookies and share a traditional recipe for you to try in your own kitchen. So put on your apron and get ready to create some festive magic!
Main Ingredients: Butter, Shortening, Packed Brown Sugar, Baking Soda
Get ready to experience the flavors of the holidays with these delicious Mountain Christmas Cookies. Made with a combination of oats, raisins, and warm spices, these cookies have a comforting and rustic feel that will transport you to a cozy cabin in the mountains. The perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa by the fireplace, these cookies are a must-have on your holiday baking list.
Originating from the Moravian community in North Carolina, these Christmas cookies are a beloved tradition during the holiday season. Made with a blend of spices and citrus flavors, these thin and crispy cookies are sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Pro tip: dust them with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
If you're a fan of Italian desserts, then you'll love these traditional Christmas cookies. Also known as "Italian Wedding Cookies" or "Snowball Cookies", these buttery treats are rolled in powdered sugar and filled with chopped nuts for a delightful crunch. Fun fact: these cookies are traditionally served at weddings, but they're just as delicious during the holiday season.
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Main Ingredients: Butter, White Sugar, Brown Sugar, Egg, Orange Juice
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Also known as Russian Tea Cakes, these Snowball Christmas Cookies are a classic holiday treat. Made with butter, powdered sugar, and chopped nuts, these cookies are rolled into small balls and resemble snowballs - hence the name. They're a simple yet delicious addition to any cookie platter.
Short on time but still want to make homemade Christmas cookies? Look no further than these easy Christmas cookies. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a batch of these cookies in no time. Pro tip: get the kids involved in decorating them with colorful sprinkles or icing.
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Chocolate Brownie Christmas Cookies
Main Ingredients: Nestle Toll House, Unsalted Butter, Large Eggs, Sugar
Short on time and ingredients? These 4 Ingredient Christmas Cookies are the perfect solution. Made with just butter, flour, sugar, and vanilla extract, these cookies are simple yet delicious. Get creative with different extracts and add-ins like chocolate chips or nuts.
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4 Ingredient Christmas Cookies
Main Ingredients: Devil S Food Cake Mix, Eggs, Oil, Hershey Kisses
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Funfetti Christmas Cookies
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, Sugar, Large Eggs, Vanilla Extract
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Hot Cocoa Cookies- Christmas Cookiess
Main Ingredients: Butter, Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar, Eggs, Vanilla
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Toffee Pecan Christmas Cookies
Main Ingredients: Light Brown Sugar, Granulated Sugar, Country Crock
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Ginger Crinkle Snowflake Christmas Cookies
Main Ingredients: Butter, Sugar, Eggs, Molasses, Salt, Baking Soda
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Ritz Cracker Christmas Cookies
Main Ingredients: Ritz Crackers, White Chocolate Melting Wafers, Coconut
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Christmas Cookies Bars
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Baking Soda, Salt, Crisco
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Belgian Christmas Cookies — Christmas Cookies from...
Main Ingredients: Flour, Baking Powder, Salt, Butter, Brown Sugar, Egg
Experience the flavors of Hungary with these traditional Hungarian Christmas Cookies. Made with a buttery dough and filled with a mix of nuts, raisins, and spices, these cookies are a delicious blend of sweet and savory. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate holiday treat.
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Hungarian Christmas Cookies
Main Ingredients: All Purpose Flour, Butter, Rapid Rise Yeast, Sugar
Take a trip to the mountains with these delicious Mountain Christmas Cookies. Made with hearty ingredients like oats, nuts, and dried fruit, these cookies are a wholesome and satisfying treat. Perfect for enjoying after a day of skiing or to fuel up for holiday shopping, these cookies are a must-have on your holiday baking list.
The History of Moravian Christmas Cookies
The Origins
The Moravian Church, founded in the 15th century in what is now the Czech Republic, had a strong presence in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The Moravians were known for their love of baking and their intricate and decorative cookies, which were often made for special occasions. It is believed that the recipe for Moravian Christmas cookies was brought to America by the Moravian settlers in the 1700s.
The Tradition Spreads
The Moravian Christmas cookie tradition quickly spread throughout the local community and beyond. The cookies were often given as gifts during the holiday season and were a symbol of love and appreciation. As more people tasted these delicious treats, the demand for the recipe grew. Eventually, it became a staple in many households during Christmas time.
A Symbol of Unity
The Moravian Christmas cookie also holds a deeper meaning for the Moravian Church. The shape of the cookie, which resembles a six-pointed star, is a symbol of the Moravian star, representing the birth of Jesus and the unity of the Church. The ingredients used in the cookies, such as cinnamon, cloves, and allspice, also hold symbolic meanings, reminding us of the spices brought by the wise men as gifts for the baby Jesus.
The Recipe
Now that you know the history behind these festive cookies, it's time to try making them yourself! Here is a traditional recipe for Moravian Christmas cookies that will fill your home with the warm and comforting scents of the holiday season.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, ginger, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add in the egg and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
Gradually add in the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.
Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Repeat with the remaining dough, re-rolling scraps as needed.
Serve and enjoy your homemade Moravian Christmas cookies!
In Conclusion
Moravian Christmas cookies are more than just a tasty treat - they are a symbol of tradition, love, and unity. This holiday season, why not start your own family tradition by baking these delicious cookies? With their rich history and delicious flavors, they are sure to be a hit at your Christmas gatherings. Happy baking!
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