Berliner Kranz Cookies are a traditional German treat known for their delicate buttery texture and beautiful wreath-like shape. These cookies are made with a rich dough that incorporates hard-cooked egg yolks, giving them a unique flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth consistency. Berliner Kranz Cookies are often enjoyed during the holiday season and are a favorite in German households and bakeries. These delightful cookies are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a lovely addition to any cookie platter or festive celebration.

Berliner Kranz Cookies are a beloved part of German baking tradition, hailing from the region of Berlin. The word “Berliner” refers to a person from Berlin, and “Kranz” means wreath in German, describing the cookie’s distinctive circular shape. Berliner Kranz Cookies have a long history and are considered a classic German cookie.

The recipe for Berliner Kranz Cookies has been passed down through generations of German families. These cookies are particularly popular during Christmas time, as they are often included in the assortment of holiday cookies and treats prepared for festive gatherings. Berliner Kranz Cookies are also commonly enjoyed throughout the year as a sweet treat alongside a cup of tea or coffee.

The distinctive flavor and texture of Berliner Kranz Cookies come from the inclusion of hard-cooked egg yolks in the dough. This unique ingredient adds richness and contributes to the cookie’s delicate crumb. The cookies are typically shaped using a special fluted doughnut cutter, which creates their characteristic wreath-like appearance. After baking, Berliner Kranz Cookies are decorated with colored sugar and sometimes adorned with red-hot candies, adding a festive touch.

Berliner Kranz Cookies hold a special place in German baking traditions and are often made with care and love, representing a sense of heritage and family connections. They are cherished for their distinctive taste, delicate texture, and beautiful presentation.

PREP: 40 MIN. + CHILLING

BAKE: 10 MIN./BATCH

MAKES: 4 DOZEN

INGREDIENTS

• 4 hard-cooked eggs
• 1 cup butter-flavored shortening
• 1 cup sugar
• 4 uncooked egg yolks
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• 3¾ cups all-purpose flour
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup half-and-half cream
• 1 egg white, lightly beaten
• Red and green sugar
• Red-hot candies

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cut the hard-cooked eggs in half lengthwise. Remove the yolks and discard the whites or save them for another use. Press the yolks through a potato ricer or strainer into a small bowl, creating a fine texture.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter-flavored shortening and sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. Beat in the uncooked egg yolks, followed by the pressed hard-cooked egg yolks and almond extract. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the half-and-half cream. Beat well after each addition. Refrigerate the dough for about 1 hour or until it becomes easy to handle.
3. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the refrigerated dough to a thickness of ⅛ inch. Use a floured 2½-inch doughnut cutter to cut out the cookies. If desired, gather the dough scraps and reroll them to make additional cookies.
4. Place the cut-out doughnut-shaped cookies about 1 inch apart on ungreased baking sheets. Brush each cookie with lightly beaten egg white. Sprinkle the cookies as desired with red and green colored sugar. Bake the cookies in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 6 minutes. Carefully decorate the cookies as desired with red-hot candies. Continue baking for an additional 4 to 8 minutes or until the edges of the cookies are lightly browned. Remove the cookies from the oven and transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

NOTE:

• Berliner Kranz Cookies are best stored in an airtight container to maintain their delicate texture. They make a delightful addition to holiday cookie platters, festive gatherings, or simply as a special treat to be enjoyed with family and friends. These beautifully shaped and flavored cookies are a testament to the rich baking heritage and traditions of Germany.