German Dessert > German Cookies

Orange-Cranberry Röggelchen Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar

Special Equipment Needed:
- Stand mixer
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush

Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the egg and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
5. Add the flour mixture and mix until just combined.
6. Add the cranberries and orange juice and mix until combined.
7. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead until smooth.
8. Roll out the dough to a 1/4-inch thickness.
9. Cut the dough into 2-inch circles and place on the prepared baking sheet.
10. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
11. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
12. Once cooled, dust with confectioners’ sugar.

Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature: 350°F
Serving Size: Makes about 24 cookies

Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 120
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 17g
Protein: 2g

Substitutions for Ingredients
- Unsalted butter: can be substituted with vegan butter
- Dried cranberries: can be substituted with raisins or dried cherries
- Orange juice: can be substituted with apple juice

Variations:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the dough for a spiced flavor
- Substitute the orange juice with lemon juice for a lemon-cranberry flavor
- Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the dough

Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure the butter is at room temperature before creaming with the sugar
- Roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking
- Use a pastry brush to brush the tops of the cookies with melted butter for a golden brown finish

Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5 minutes or until warm.

Presentation Ideas:
- Serve on a platter with fresh orange slices and cranberries
- Arrange on a cake stand with a dusting of confectioners’ sugar

Garnishes:
- Orange zest
- Chopped walnuts or pecans

Pairings:
- Hot cocoa
- Vanilla ice cream

Suggested Side Dishes:
- Fruit salad
- Roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the dough is too sticky, add more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it is the correct consistency.
- If the cookies are too dry, add a few tablespoons of orange juice to the dough.

Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Store in an airtight container to prevent contamination.

Food History:
Röggelchen is a traditional German cookie that is usually served during the Christmas season. It is made with butter, sugar, and flour, and is often flavored with citrus and dried fruit.

Flavor Profiles:
This cookie has a sweet and tart flavor from the orange juice and cranberries, and a buttery flavor from the butter.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an after-dinner treat with coffee or tea
- Enjoy as a snack with a glass of milk

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Taste: Tangy, Sweet, Citrusy, Fruity, Aromatic