CHRISTMAS SURPRISE COOKIES

Ingredients

Christmas Cookies

cold butter: 75 grams (2.65 ounces)
flour: 100 grams (3.55 ounces)
powdered sugar: 50 grams (1.75 ounces)
almond flour: 40 grams (1.40 ounces)
salt: 1 gram (0.05 ounces)
cinnamon: 1 gram (0.05 ounces)
orange zest: from 0.5 orange (approximately 1 tablespoon)
eggs: 30 grams (about 1 large egg)

Equipment

Mixer or Food Processor
Using a mixer or food processor will help you blend the butter and dry ingredients quickly and efficiently. Make sure the butter is well-crumbled for the best texture.
Rolling Pin
A rolling pin will help you roll out the dough evenly. If you don’t have one, a wine bottle works just as well!
Parchment Paper
This is essential to prevent sticking and to make transferring the dough easier. Place one sheet below and one above the dough while rolling it out.
Baking Sheet
A sturdy baking sheet will ensure even baking. Line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Cookie Cutters
Use square cookie cutters for this recipe. You can find them in different sizes to match your creative vision.

Instructions

Step 1

Hello, everyone! If you create a cube from several square cookies, then decorate it with chocolate to look like a New Year's reindeer, and put some M&M's inside, you'll have an amazing surprise for a child (and even an adult)!

Step 2

For the Christmas surprise cookies:

Step 3

1. Mix the dry ingredients (flour, powdered sugar, almond flour, salt, and cinnamon). Make sure all the dry ingredients are well combined to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Step 4

2. Cut the cold butter into small cubes and combine it with the dry ingredients. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Using a food processor or a stand mixer can make this step easier, but you can also do it by hand using a pastry cutter or two knives.

Step 5

3. Add the egg and knead the dough until it comes together. Don't overwork the dough to avoid making the cookies tough.

Step 6

4. Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper and refrigerate it for 1-2 hours. Chilling the dough makes it easier to cut and helps prevent the cookies from spreading too much during baking.

Step 7

5. Preheat your oven to 150°C (302°F). Cut the chilled dough into the required shapes using cookie cutters.

Step 8

6. Bake the cookies for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden. Keep an eye on the cookies as baking times can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the dough.

Servings

Imagine biting into these beautifully decorated Christmas cookies only to find a surprise stash of M&M's inside! These cookies are perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, and even as gifts wrapped in festive tins. If you're planning a cozy Christmas movie night at home, serve these cookies with warm cocoa topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. They also make an excellent addition to a holiday dessert table next to other traditional treats like gingerbread men and peppermint bark. For an elevated experience, pair these cookies with a glass of mulled wine or a hot toddy. The flavors of orange zest and cinnamon in the cookies complement these beverages wonderfully, turning every bite into a heartwarming holiday memory.

Variations

For a gluten-free variation, replace the wheat flour with an equal amount of gluten-free all-purpose flour and confirm that all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Almond flour is naturally gluten-free, so you’re good to go there! For a vegan version, substitute the butter with a plant-based butter and replace the egg with a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water). These swaps will still give you a deliciously rich cookie that everyone can enjoy.

Faq

How do I prevent my cookie dough from sticking to the rolling pin?
Place the dough between two sheets of parchment paper before rolling it out. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Why is my dough crumbly and not coming together?
Make sure your butter is cold but not frozen. If it's too cold, it won't blend well with the dry ingredients. You can also add a little bit of water if necessary.
Can I prepare the dough in advance?
Yes, the dough can be made up to 3 days in advance. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before rolling out.
What’s the best way to store these cookies?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. They can also be frozen for up to three months.
How do I ensure even baking?
Preheat your oven thoroughly and ensure your cookies are of uniform thickness. Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the baking time for even results.
Can I add other flavors to the dough?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or cardamom, or even add a touch of vanilla extract for extra flavor depth.