Easy Vegan Vanillekipferl: Homemade Dairy-Free Almond Crescent Cookies

há 3 semanas

Craving the delicate, melt-in-your-mouth goodness of traditional European Christmas cookies, but looking for a plant-based alternative? Look no further! These easy homemade vegan Vanillekipferl, also known as almond crescent cookies, are the perfect dairy-free and egg-free treat for holiday gatherings or a sweet indulgence any time of year.

This recipe simplifies the classic, ensuring you can whip up a batch of these exquisite vanilla-scented delights with minimal fuss. They're ideal for anyone with dietary restrictions or simply those looking to explore delicious vegan baking.

Ingredients for Vegan Vanillekipferl laid out on a clean surface, including almond butter, almond flour, powdered sugar, a vanilla bean, and whole wheat flour.

What Are Vanillekipferl?

Vanillekipferl are small, crescent-shaped cookies, traditionally made with ground nuts (often almonds or walnuts) and dusted generously with vanilla-infused powdered sugar. They are a beloved staple in Austrian, German, Czech, and Hungarian Christmas baking, known for their delicate, crumbly texture and rich vanilla flavor. Our vegan version captures all the authentic taste and charm, without any dairy or eggs!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delightful vegan almond crescent cookies:

1 cup almond butter
1 cup almond flour (also known as almond meal)
1/2 cup powdered sugar, plus extra for dusting
1 vanilla bean (or 1 tsp vanilla extract)
1 cup whole wheat flour
1-2 tablespoons water (as needed)

A close-up of a plate of freshly baked Vanillekipferl, lightly dusted with powdered sugar, showcasing their signature crescent shape.

Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your own batch of dairy-free Vanillekipferl:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the almond butter, almond flour, powdered sugar, and the scraped seeds from the vanilla bean (or vanilla extract).
Gradually add the whole wheat flour and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
Add water one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together and is pliable enough to roll without being sticky.
Take small portions of dough and roll them into thin logs, then shape into crescent moons. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The cookies will still be soft when hot.
While the cookies are still warm, gently roll them in extra powdered sugar until fully coated. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Enjoy your homemade vegan Vanillekipferl!

Variations and Adaptations

Gluten-Free Option: Easily make these Vanillekipferl gluten-free by substituting the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure your blend contains xanthan gum or add 1/4 teaspoon for best results.
Nut-Free (with caution): While these are traditionally almond-based, you could experiment with a seed butter (like sunflower seed butter) and seed flour, though the flavor and texture will change significantly. Always verify ingredients for cross-contamination if severe allergies are a concern.
Chocolate Dipped: For an extra touch of decadence, once cooled, dip one end of the crescent in melted vegan chocolate.
Citrus Zest: Add a teaspoon of finely grated lemon or orange zest to the dough for a bright, fresh flavor twist.
Vanilla Extract: If you don't have a vanilla bean, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract works perfectly well as a substitute.

Tips for Success

Don't Overbake: Vanillekipferl are meant to be delicate. They should be just lightly golden at the edges, not deeply browned. They will firm up as they cool.
Powdered Sugar Dusting: Dusting the cookies while they are still warm helps the powdered sugar adhere beautifully, creating that signature snowy look and enhancing the vanilla flavor.
Storage: Store these vegan Christmas cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week, or freeze for longer freshness.

Ready to bake? Give this easy vegan Vanillekipferl recipe a try and bring a taste of European holiday tradition into your home! We'd love to see your results! Share your culinary creations on abillion.