Himbeerplätzchen

Himbeerplätzchen are delicious raspberry cookies that make a perfect treat for any occasion. Their unique star shape and delightful raspberry filling bring a festive spirit to your table. Not only are these cookies visually appealing, but their sweet-tart flavor pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea. Enjoy them during holidays, parties, or simply for a cozy afternoon snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible even for beginners.
• Versatile Decor: You can decorate these cookies with either white chocolate or a lemon glaze, allowing you to customize them for any event.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 32 servings, these cookies are ideal for gatherings or holiday gift-giving.
• Delicious Flavor Combination: The mix of buttery cookie and tangy raspberry jam creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.

Tools and Preparation

To craft the perfect Himbeerplätzchen, having the right tools is crucial. Gather your equipment before starting to streamline the baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Rolling pin
• Cookie cutters (star-shaped)
• Mixing bowl
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: These provide a flat surface to bake your cookies evenly without burning.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your dough to the right thickness for cutting shapes.
• Cookie cutters: Using star-shaped cutters adds a festive touch that makes these cookies stand out.

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 300 g Mehl
• 200 g Butter
• 100 g Puderzucker
• 1 Ei

For the Filling and Topping

• 270 g Himbeergelee
• 10 gefriergetrocknete Himbeeren
• Pistazien
• weiße Kuvertüre

Optional Glaze

• 1 EL Zitronensaft
• Puderzucker

How to Make Himbeerplätzchen

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Combine the following ingredients in a mixing bowl:
1. 300 g Mehl
2. 200 g Butter
3. 100 g Puderzucker
4. 1 Ei

Knead the mixture until it forms a smooth dough. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 1 hour.

Step 2: Shape the Cookies

Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface. Use star-shaped cookie cutters to cut out shapes. Cut one set with solid stars and another set with cut-out centers.

Step 3: Bake the Cookies

Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F). Place the shaped cookies on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8-10 minutes until they are lightly golden but not browned.

Step 4: Decorate the Cookies

Once cooled, dip half of each top cookie into melted white chocolate. Sprinkle with chopped freeze-dried raspberries and pistachios. Alternatively, mix lemon juice and powdered sugar to create a thick glaze instead of chocolate.

Step 5: Assemble and Store

After decorating, warm up the raspberry jam slightly. Pipe some onto each bottom cookie, then sandwich together with the decorated tops. Allow them to dry completely before storing in airtight containers.

How to Serve Himbeerplätzchen

Himbeerplätzchen are delightful raspberry cookies that can be enjoyed in various ways. They not only make a wonderful treat for holiday gatherings but also serve as a sweet companion for afternoon tea or coffee.

With a Warm Beverage

• Tea: Pair your Himbeerplätzchen with a cup of herbal or black tea for a cozy experience.
• Coffee: A rich brew complements the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.
• Hot Chocolate: The creaminess of hot chocolate enhances the tartness of the raspberry flavor.

As a Festive Platter

• Cookie Platter: Arrange Himbeerplätzchen on a decorative plate alongside other holiday cookies for a colorful dessert spread.
• Gift Boxes: Pack them in decorative boxes as homemade gifts for friends and family during festive seasons.

With Fresh Fruits

• Berries: Serve with fresh raspberries or strawberries to enhance the fruity taste.
• Citrus Slices: A side of orange or lemon slices can add a refreshing contrast to the sweetness.

How to Perfect Himbeerplätzchen

Perfecting Himbeerplätzchen can elevate your baking game. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cookies turn out just right.

• Use chilled dough: Ensure your dough is well-chilled before rolling it out. This prevents sticking and makes cutting shapes easier.
• Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on them while baking. You want them lightly golden, not brown, to preserve their delicate texture.
• Tempering chocolate: If using white chocolate, temper it properly for a smooth finish and shiny appearance.
• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to try different toppings, like crushed nuts or sprinkles, for added texture and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Himbeerplätzchen

Himbeerplätzchen pair beautifully with various side dishes that complement their sweet and tangy flavors. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.
2. Cheese Plate: Include soft cheeses like cream cheese or mascarpone for a creamy contrast to the cookie’s texture.
3. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a refreshing side that pairs well with cookies.
4. Nut Mix: A selection of roasted nuts provides crunch and richness, making it an ideal snack next to Himbeerplätzchen.
5. Ice Cream: Serve with vanilla or raspberry sorbet for a delightful dessert combination.
6. Pudding Cups: Light fruit-flavored pudding cups can be an enjoyable side for kids and adults alike.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Himbeerplätzchen, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect ingredient measurements: Always use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements. This ensures your cookies have the right texture and flavor.
• Not chilling the dough: Chilling the dough is crucial for proper shaping. If you skip this step, your cookies may spread too much during baking.
• Overbaking the cookies: Keep an eye on your cookies while they bake. They should remain light in color; overbaking can lead to dry cookies.
• Skipping the cooling process: Allow your cookies to cool completely before frosting or assembling. This prevents melting and ensures a better finish.
• Ignoring storage tips: Proper storage keeps your Himbeerplätzchen fresh longer. Use airtight containers and store them in a cool place.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the Himbeerplätzchen in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to one week in the refrigerator.

Freezing Himbeerplätzchen

• Place cookies in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating Himbeerplätzchen

• Oven: Preheat to 150°C (300°F) and warm for about 5 minutes for a fresh-baked taste.
• Microwave: Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds, but be careful not to overheat.
• Stovetop: Use a covered skillet on low heat for a couple of minutes to warm through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Himbeerplätzchen?

Himbeerplätzchen are delicious raspberry-flavored cookies that are often shaped like stars. They are perfect for festive occasions or as a sweet treat any time of year.

Can I substitute ingredients in Himbeerplätzchen?

Yes! You can use different types of fruit preserves or jellies if you want to experiment with flavors. Additionally, try using different nuts or toppings.

How long do Himbeerplätzchen last?

When stored properly, these cookies can last up to one week in the fridge or three months in the freezer.

Can I make Himbeerplätzchen vegan?

Yes! Substitute butter with plant-based margarine and use flaxseed meal mixed with water instead of egg for a vegan option.

Are there variations of Himbeerplätzchen?

Absolutely! You can customize them by adding spices like cinnamon or using different fruits in the filling.

Final Thoughts

Himbeerplätzchen are not only delightful but also versatile. Their sweet raspberry flavor combined with lovely decorations makes them perfect for any occasion. Feel free to customize them with various toppings or fillings according to your preference!