Ingredients

For the Dough:

• Flour: 300 g (1.8 cups)
• Salt: A pinch
• Baking powder: ½ tsp
• Vanilla sugar: 1 tsp
• Butter: 100 g (3.5 oz), chilled and cubed
• Sour cream (or natural yogurt): 200 g (7.0 oz)
• Egg yolk: 1

For the Nut Filling:

• Nuts: 200 g (7.0 oz), finely chopped or ground
• Egg white: 1
• Sugar: 2 tbsp
• Powdered sugar: 5 tbsp (for the filling and dusting)

Baking Information:

• Temperature: 180°C (356°F)
• Time: 20-25 minutes

Prep Time, Baking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Baking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, baking powder, and vanilla sugar. Whisk to ensure even distribution.
2. Incorporate the butter: Add the chilled butter cubes to the dry ingredients. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add the wet ingredients: Mix in the sour cream (or yogurt) and the egg yolk. Stir until the dough comes together.
4. Form the dough: Knead gently on a lightly floured surface until smooth, but avoid overworking it. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to firm up.

Step 2: Prepare the Nut Filling

1. Grind the nuts: Finely chop or grind the nuts, depending on your preference. Walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts work well for this recipe.
2. Mix the filling: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg white until slightly frothy. Stir in the nuts, sugar, and 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar. Mix well until the filling forms a cohesive paste.

Step 3: Shape and Assemble the Cookies

1. Roll out the dough: On a floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a thin sheet (about 3-5 mm thick).
2. Cut shapes: Use a round or square cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the dough.
3. Add the filling: Place a small amount of the nut filling in the center of each shape. Fold or roll the dough over the filling, sealing the edges by pressing gently.

Step 4: Bake the Cookies

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (356°F) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
2. Arrange the cookies: Place the filled cookies on the prepared tray, leaving a small gap between each.
3. Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cookies are golden and slightly puffed.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

1. Cool the cookies: Allow the cookies to cool on a wire rack.
2. Dust with powdered sugar: Generously dust the cooled cookies with the remaining powdered sugar before serving.

Servings and Nutritional Information

• Servings: 12-15 cookies (depending on size)
• Calories (per cookie): Approximately 150 kcal
• Protein: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Saturated Fat: 4 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: 30 mg

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Buttery Cookies with Nut Filling hold a special place in baking traditions worldwide. They embody a combination of textures and flavors that appeal to all generations. The buttery dough, reminiscent of shortbread, pairs beautifully with the nutty filling, creating a balance between richness and sweetness.

This recipe also showcases the adaptability of classic techniques. By swapping nuts, adjusting the sweetness, or experimenting with shapes, you can make this treat uniquely yours. These cookies also tie us to our culinary roots, often appearing in festive spreads or as cherished homemade gifts.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans. You can even mix different nuts for a unique flavor.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, the dough can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Bring it to room temperature before rolling out.

3. Can I freeze these cookies?
Yes! Freeze the unbaked cookies on a tray until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 2-3 minutes to the baking time.

Tips for Perfect Cookies

1. Chill the dough: Chilling the dough makes it easier to roll out and prevents it from becoming too sticky.
2. Use fresh nuts: Freshly ground or chopped nuts will enhance the flavor and texture of the filling.
3. Avoid overfilling: Using too much filling can cause the cookies to burst during baking. A teaspoon of filling per cookie is usually sufficient.
4. Seal the edges well: Press the edges of the dough firmly to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.

Storage Tips

1. At room temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
2. In the refrigerator: These cookies stay fresh for up to 10 days when refrigerated in a sealed container.
3. In the freezer: Freeze baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

These Buttery Cookies with Nut Filling are more than just a dessert—they’re a celebration of timeless baking traditions and the joy of sharing homemade treats. Their flaky, tender texture and rich, nutty filling make them irresistible to anyone who tries them.

This recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with care and attention, can result in something truly special. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a family gathering, or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, these cookies are guaranteed to impress.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the process of baking these delightful cookies. Each bite is a reminder of the love and tradition that goes into homemade desserts. Share them with loved ones or savor them with a cup of tea or coffee—you’ll find they bring warmth and comfort with every bite.