Ingredients

2/3 cup butter
1 teaspoon almond extract
1 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
2 eggs
1 2/3 cups sifted all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup finely chopped unblanched whole almonds
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 teaspoons red sugar crystals
2 teaspoons green sugar crystals
Belgium is renowned for its variety of sweet treats, and these Belgian Christmas Cookies are no exception. These cookies are a customary staple during the holiday season, and are enjoyed by families across the country. The highlight of these cookies is the use of red and green sugar crystals, which not only add the festive colors but also the flavor. These cookies have a soft texture with a hint of cinnamon, and a nuttiness from the almonds. Enjoy them with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate in front of a warm fireplace to get into the holiday spirit.

Instructions

1.In a large bowl, cream together the butter, almond extract, and brown sugar until smooth.
2.Beat in the eggs, one at a time, and stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
3.Fold in the chopped almonds.
4.Divide the dough into 2 equal portions and mix red sugar crystals into one and green sugar crystals into another.
5.Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
6.Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
7.Roll the dough into balls and place them on a greased baking sheet.
8.Flatten the cookies slightly and sprinkle some more sugar crystals on top.
9.Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges turn golden brown.
10.Cool on a wire rack and store in an airtight container.

PROS

Belgian Christmas Cookies are a festive and colorful snack that are perfect for holiday gatherings and can be gifted to loved ones.
These cookies are easy to make and are perfect for beginners.

CONS

These cookies have high calorie and sugar content, and should be enjoyed in moderation.
They also contain almonds, which can cause allergic reactions in some people.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Despite their sugary nature, almonds in these cookies are a rich source of vitamin E, protein, and healthy fats. These nutrients have benefits like improving heart health, providing regulated blood sugar levels, and maintaining healthy brain functioning. It’s always best to consume sweets in moderation.

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