Christmas cookie time

It’s that time of the year again. Carol singers have started making their rounds and there’s a feeling of joy in the air. December is here and Christmas is around the corner. With talk of the wonderful festival, the delicious aroma of Christmas cakes and bakes can’t be far behind! This week, we’re joined by French national Amandine Agarwal, who operates a small bakery, O Delices in the city. Amandine makes and sells fruit cakes and her signature spiced cookies that can be ordered in advance (orders can be placed on 9581066149). But, in the spirit of Christmas, she generously shares her cookie recipe for our readers.

Zesty orange and spiced cookies

Ingredients

• 270 gm all-purpose flour (maida)
• 125 gm butter, at room temperature
• 125 gm white sugar
• 2 egg yolks
• 1 orange
• ½ tsp cinnamon powder
• ¼ tsp ginger powder
• ¼ tsp nutmeg powder

Method

Mix the butter and sugar together in a bowl, using a wooden spoon or spatula. The sugar should get completely dissolved into the butter and you should obtain a soft and creamy consistency.

Next, add the egg yolks, all-purpose flour and spices. Now add the orange zest to the biscuit dough and shape it into a ball. Cover the dough with cling film and place in the fridge for 30 minutes. Preheat your oven at 180°C. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of ¾ mm. Using a sharp knife, cut out cookies into shapes like Christmas tree, stars, gingerbread man etc. or use a cookie cutter. Cookies of the same shape and size should be baked together to get an even finish. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until they turn a light golden colour. Your delicious spiced Christmas cookies are ready.