Amish Christmas Cookies (Nuwave/Flavorwave)

🍪🎄 Amish Christmas Cookies 🍪🎄

Amish Christmas Cookies are delightful treats that have become a beloved part of holiday traditions. These cookies are known for their simplicity, heartwarming flavors, and a touch of nostalgia. Let’s dive into their history, components, preparation steps, and the time needed to make them.

History:
The Amish Christmas Cookies don’t have a direct historical link to the Amish community, but they are inspired by the Amish way of life, emphasizing simplicity and wholesome ingredients. They reflect the values of the Amish people, who are known for their traditional and communal living.

Components:

1. Butter: Usually, unsalted butter is used for a rich flavor.
2. Sugar: Granulated white sugar for sweetness.
3. Egg: To bind the ingredients together.
4. Vanilla Extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor.
5. Flour: All-purpose flour for the cookie base.
6. Baking Powder: To give the cookies a soft, fluffy texture.
7. Salt: Enhances the flavors.
8. Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
9. Candied Cherries: To bring festive colors and sweetness.

Preparation Steps:

🕒 Time Needed: Approximately 30 minutes (excluding chilling time).

1. Cream Butter and Sugar:

• In a mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy.

2. Add Egg and Vanilla:

• Beat in 1 egg and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients:

• In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures:

• Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.

5. Add Nuts and Candied Cherries:

• Gently fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts and 1/2 cup of chopped candied cherries.

6. Chill Dough:

• Shape the dough into a log or two and wrap them in plastic wrap.
• Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.

7. Slice and Bake:

• Preheat your NuWave/Flavorwave oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Slice the chilled dough into 1/4-inch rounds and place them on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes until the edges are lightly golden.

8. Cool and Enjoy:

• Let the cookies cool on a wire rack.
• Serve and enjoy your Amish Christmas Cookies!

These cookies are a perfect blend of tradition and holiday cheer, making them a wonderful addition to any festive gathering. Don’t forget to share them with family and friends for a heartwarming holiday experience. 🍪🎅✨

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Amish Christmas Cookies. Please note that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes:

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximate):

• Calories: 120-150 kcal
• Total Fat: 7-9g
  • Saturated Fat: 4-5g
• Cholesterol: 20-25mg
• Sodium: 30-40mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 13-15g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0-1g
  • Sugars: 7-8g
• Protein: 1-2g

Health Information:

1. Moderation is Key: Amish Christmas Cookies are delicious but can be high in sugar and saturated fat. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

2. Watch Portion Sizes: Be mindful of portion sizes to control calorie intake. It’s easy to consume more than one serving of these tasty cookies.

3. Balance with Nutrients: While these cookies provide energy (calories) and some fat, they don’t offer many essential nutrients. Balance your diet with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

4. Limit Added Sugars: The sugar content in these cookies can be relatively high. Limit your intake of added sugars throughout the day to maintain good health.

5. Nut Allergies: If you or anyone consuming these cookies has nut allergies, consider omitting the nuts or using an alternative like seeds or chocolate chips.

6. Enjoy in the Holiday Spirit: These cookies are a delightful holiday treat. Enjoy them as part of your festive celebrations, but remember to maintain a balanced diet overall.

Remember that these values are approximate and can vary based on your specific recipe and ingredients. If you have specific dietary concerns or health goals, consider consulting a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized guidance. 🍪🎄🥛