Magical Chocolate Stars: Christmas Cookies That Delight the Taste!

 Magical Chocolate Stars: Christmas Cookies That Delight the Taste!

Yield: Approximately 30 cookies

Preparation time: 20 minutes

Baking time: 10-12 minutes

Total time: 1 hour (including cooling time) These star-shaped cookies are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and filled with melted chocolate – perfect for decorating the Christmas tree or gifting to family. With a touch of cinnamon and vanilla, they evoke the Christmas spirit in every bite!

Ingredients

For the dough: 200g all-purpose flour

100g unsalted butter (at room temperature)

100g brown sugar

50g 100% cocoa powder (unsweetened)

1 large egg

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 pinch of ground cinnamon (optional, for a Christmas aroma)

For decoration:

150g milk or semi-sweet chocolate (for melting)

Colored sprinkles, royal icing, or powdered sugar for dusting

Star-shaped cookie cutter (medium size, about 7-8 cm)

Preparation:

Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, beat the butter with the brown sugar until creamy (use an electric mixer or whisk for about 2 minutes). Add the egg and vanilla extract, mixing well.

Incorporate the dry ingredients:

Sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring with a spatula until a smooth, firm dough forms. If it's too sticky, add 1-2 tablespoons of extra flour.

Cool the dough:

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes (this makes it easier to handle and prevents the cookies from spreading in the oven).

Shape the stars:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick. Use a star-shaped cookie cutter to cut out the cookies. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving 2 cm (1/4 inch) of space between them.

Bake:

Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the edges are firm (the center should remain soft). Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Decorate with magic:

Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or microwave (in 20-second intervals, stirring). Dip the tips of the stars in the chocolate or pipe designs using a piping bag. Sprinkle with sprinkles or sugar while the chocolate is still soft. Let it dry completely.

Christmas tips:

Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Vary: Add small pieces of white chocolate to the dough for an irresistible contrast.

Serve with warm milk and cinnamon for a perfect family evening!