Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup finely chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup caramel bits
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food processor
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. In a food processor, pulse the pecans until finely chopped.
6. Add the chopped pecans to the dough and mix until evenly distributed.
7. Roll the dough into small crescent shapes (kipferl) and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
9. While the kipferl are baking, melt the caramel bits in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly.
10. Once the kipferl are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
11. Dip the cooled kipferl into the melted caramel, then sprinkle with powdered sugar.
12. Serve and enjoy!
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature:
Bake at 350°F (175°C)
Serving size:
Makes about 24 kipferl
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 150
Total fat: 11g
Saturated fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
Sodium: 50mg
Total carbohydrates: 12g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 6g
Protein: 2g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Instead of pecans, you can use almonds or walnuts.
- Instead of caramel bits, you can use melted caramel sauce.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon to the dough for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Drizzle melted chocolate over the kipferl for a decadent touch.
- Add a teaspoon of instant espresso powder to the dough for a coffee-flavored twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the butter is softened before creaming it with the sugar and vanilla extract.
- Don't overmix the dough, or the kipferl will be tough.
- Let the kipferl cool for a few minutes before dipping them in the melted caramel, or the caramel will slide off.
- Store the kipferl in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Storage instructions:
Store the kipferl in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.
Reheating instructions:
The kipferl can be reheated in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to crisp them up again.
Presentation ideas:
Arrange the kipferl on a platter and sprinkle with powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle the kipferl with chopped nuts or drizzle with melted chocolate for a decorative touch.
Pairings:
Serve the kipferl with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
Suggested side dishes:
The kipferl can be served as a dessert or snack on their own.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or water to moisten it.
- If the kipferl are too crumbly, add a little more butter to the dough.
- If the kipferl are too soft, bake them for a few more minutes until they are lightly golden.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to use fresh ingredients and wash your hands and equipment thoroughly before preparing the recipe.
Food history:
Kipferl are a traditional Austrian cookie that are similar to crescent-shaped shortbread. They are often made with ground nuts and dusted with powdered sugar.
Flavor profiles:
The caramel and vanilla flavors in these kipferl are warm and sweet, while the pecans add a nutty crunch.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the kipferl on a platter with a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
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Region: Austrian
Taste: Sweet, Creamy, Nutty, Caramelized