Finding traditional holiday cookie recipes that bring both nostalgia and unique flavors to your Christmas celebrations can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Between the countless sugar cookies and gingerbread variations, it’s easy to get stuck in a baking rut during the festive season. That’s where these Yugoslavian Christmas cookies come in – they’re a wonderful blend of old-world charm and simple ingredients that most bakers already have in their pantry. These cookies have been passed down through generations, offering a taste of Eastern European holiday traditions that your family and friends will surely appreciate.
Suggestions for Ingredient Substitution
Unsalted butter can be replaced with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Use a 1:1 ratio, but ensure the coconut oil is solid at room temperature for proper creaming. This substitution maintains the rich texture while adding a subtle coconut flavor. Ground almonds or pecans can be used instead of ground walnuts for those with walnut allergies. The substitution provides a similar nutty flavor and texture. For a lower-sugar alternative, replace white sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol. Use about 1/3 to 1/2 the amount of stevia or erythritol, as they are sweeter than sugar. Adjust to taste and be aware that this may affect the texture of the cookies slightly.
| Preparation Time | 30-45 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 40-45 minutes |
| Total Time | 70-90 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 2500-2800
- Protein: 30-40 g
- Fat: 180-200 g
- Carbohydrates: 250-280 g
Ingredients
- 1 cup room temperature unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup white sugar
- 1 large egg yolk (room temperature)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 1/2 cups plain flour
- 4 large egg whites (room temperature)
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3/4 cup finely ground walnuts
- 1 teaspoon lemon or vanilla flavoring
- 1 cup blackberry jam (without seeds)
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the egg yolk and a pinch of salt, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the flour and continue mixing until the dough becomes crumbly.
Prepare a jelly roll 11×16-inch pan or a 9×13-inch pan.
Press the dough into the bottom of the pan, floured hands can help prevent sticking.
Step 2: Make the Meringue
Using a hand mixer with the whisk attachment, beat the egg whites until they form stiff peaks.
Gradually add 1 cup of sugar while continuing to beat until the meringue is shiny and stiff.
Gently fold in the ground walnuts and lemon extract, taking care not to deflate the meringue.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Use a fork to soften your chosen jam, then spread it evenly over the dough layer in the pan.
Carefully spread and swirl the prepared meringue on top of the jam.
Sprinkle the top with chopped walnuts to add a crunchy texture.
Step 4: Bake the Cookies
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the top of the meringue is golden and crisp.
Keep an eye on it to prevent over-browning.
Step 5: Cut and Serve
Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and, while they are still warm, cut them into pieces using a serrated knife.
Use a gentle sawing motion to avoid crushing the delicate meringue.
If any meringue breaks, gently press it into the jam layer below.
Let the cookies cool in the pan or on a wire rack before serving.
Enjoy your delightful treat!
