Serbian Vanilice Recipe

To craft these traditional Serbian Vanilice in your own kitchen, you’ll need a handful of essential ingredients and a bit of patience. The process involves carefully mixing a buttery dough with finely ground walnuts, shaping the cookies into their distinctive form, and baking them to perfection. While the steps are straightforward, mastering the art of Serbian Vanilice requires attention to detail and a keen sense of timing. Are you ready to commence on this culinary journey and create a batch of these beloved treats?

Ingredients and Instructions

These crescent-shaped cookies, known as Vanilice, are a beloved Serbian treat that perfectly combines the richness of buttery dough with the nuttiness of toasted walnuts. The delicate texture and generous dusting of powdered sugar make these cookies a true delight to savor with a cup of coffee or tea. Vanilice are often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions, but their irresistible flavor and simple preparation make them a perfect choice for any day of the year.

Ingredients

• 200g softened butter
• 70g powdered sugar
• 300g all-purpose flour
• 100g finely ground walnuts
• Additional powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and 70g of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Gradually add the flour and ground walnuts to the butter mixture, mixing until a smooth dough forms.
4. Pinch off small portions of dough (about 1 tablespoon each) and shape them into crescents.
5. Place the shaped cookies on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2cm apart.
6. Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes, or until they’re lightly golden and set.
7. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Once cooled, generously dust the Vanilice with powdered sugar.

Top Tips

1. Make sure the butter is softened but not melted for easier creaming and a better texture.
2. Toast the walnuts before grinding them for enhanced flavor and aroma.
3. If the dough feels too soft to shape, chill it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes.
4. Avoid overbaking the cookies to maintain their delicate texture.
5. Store the Vanilice in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

Variations

1. Substitute walnuts with ground almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
2. Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough for extra depth of flavor.
3. Dip one end of the cooled cookies in melted dark chocolate for a decadent twist.
4. Shape the cookies into different shapes, such as rounds or ovals, for variety.
5. Sprinkle the cookies with cinnamon or cardamom along with the powdered sugar for a spiced version.

Nutritional Guide

Serving Size: 1 cookie

Calories: 80

Fat: 5g

Carbohydrates: 8g

Protein: 1g

These Vanilice cookies are a treat to be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. The ground walnuts provide some healthy fats and fiber, while the butter and sugar contribute to the calorie and fat content. To reduce the overall calorie intake, consider using a sugar substitute or reducing the amount of powdered sugar used for dusting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Origin of Serbian Vanilice Cookies?

You’ll discover that vanilice cookies originate from a traditional recipe in Serbia. The origin of these delightful treats dates back generations, with the recipe being passed down through families to preserve their authentic flavor and texture.

Can I Substitute Vanilla Extract for Vanilla Sugar?

You can substitute vanilla extract for vanilla sugar, but adjust the ingredient quantities. For each teaspoon of vanilla sugar, use 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and reduce other liquid ingredients by 1/2 teaspoon. Experiment with flavor alternatives.

How Long Do Serbian Vanilice Cookies Last?

To maintain freshness and preserve quality, store your vanilice cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months to extend their shelf life.

Is It Necessary to Chill the Dough Before Shaping the Cookies?

For best dough consistency and easier shaping, you should chill the dough before forming cookies. This also prevents spreading during baking. Experiment with flavor variations and adjust baking time accordingly for perfect results every time.

Can I Freeze Serbian Vanilice Cookies?

You can freeze the cookies for best storage. To do so, let them cool completely after baking, then place in an airtight container, separating layers with wax paper. They’ll keep well for several months when frozen.

Conclusion

To wrap up, Serbian Vanilice are a technical achievement in cookie crafting. The precise combination of finely ground walnuts, butter, and vanilla extract yields a crumbly, flavorful treat that’s authoritative in its execution.

Dusting with powdered sugar adds a final touch of sweetness. Whether you’re enjoying them with tea or coffee, these traditional crescent-shaped cookies are a tribute to Serbia’s culinary prowess and a must-try for any cookie connoisseur seeking an exceptional baking experience.