Vanilla Crescent Cookies with Bourbon Vanilla

Name: Vanilla Crescent Cookies with Bourbon Vanilla
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 24 cookies
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon Bourbon Vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds); 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon Bourbon Vanilla powder (optional)

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the buttery goodness of Vanilla Crescent Cookies infused with the rich flavor of Bourbon Vanilla. Perfect for a cozy treat or sharing with loved ones.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T18:29:51.741Z

These Vanilla Crescent Cookies are a family favorite, cherished for their melt-in-your-mouth texture and heavenly aroma. The addition of Bourbon Vanilla elevates them to a new level of indulgence.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Buttery texture that crumbles beautifully with every bite
The aromatic blend of vanilla enhances every cookie
Perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet gift

      

A Taste of Tradition

Vanilla Crescent Cookies, often known as 'Vanillekipferl', are a cherished treat in many cultures, especially during the holiday season. Their origins can be traced back to Austria, where they have been enjoyed for centuries. These cookies symbolize warmth and togetherness, making them a staple at festive gatherings. The unique crescent shape is not only delightful to the eye but also adds to the overall charm when served alongside other holiday confections.

Infused with the rich flavor of Bourbon Vanilla, these cookies elevate the traditional recipe to new heights. Bourbon Vanilla is renowned for its deep, complex flavor profile, which enhances the buttery goodness of the cookies. This luxurious ingredient transforms an already delicious treat into something truly special, ensuring that every bite is a memorable experience.

Perfect for Any Occasion

While Vanilla Crescent Cookies are often associated with the holidays, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a cozy gathering, celebrating a special milestone, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home, these cookies fit the bill. Their delicate nature makes them an excellent choice for tea parties or as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.

Additionally, these cookies are versatile. You can easily customize them by experimenting with different nuts or flavorings, such as almond or hazelnut. This adaptability allows you to cater to various tastes, ensuring that everyone enjoys a delightful treat.

Storage and Serving Tips

To keep your Vanilla Crescent Cookies fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, maintaining their delightful texture and flavor. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Simply place the baked cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw at room temperature for a few hours.

When serving, consider presenting these cookies on a decorative platter, dusted with additional powdered sugar for a beautiful touch. Pair them with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate to enhance the overall experience. Their buttery texture and aromatic flavor make them a perfect companion to warm beverages, creating a cozy moment any time of the day.

Ingredients

For the Cookies

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon Bourbon Vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup finely chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)

For Dusting

1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon Bourbon Vanilla powder (optional)

Make sure to sift the powdered sugar for a smooth dusting.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the Bourbon Vanilla extract and mix well. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing until a soft dough forms. Fold in the chopped nuts.

Shape the Cookies

Take small portions of dough and shape them into crescent forms. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes.

Dust with Sugar

While still warm, dust the cookies with a mixture of powdered sugar and Bourbon Vanilla powder. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to a week.

The Benefits of Bourbon Vanilla

Bourbon Vanilla is more than just a flavor enhancer; it offers a rich and complex taste that elevates baked goods to a gourmet level. This variety of vanilla, derived from the vanilla planifolia orchid, is prized for its sweet, creamy notes and subtle hints of spice. Incorporating Bourbon Vanilla into your baking not only enhances the flavor but also adds an aromatic quality that makes your creations irresistible.

In addition to its delightful taste, Bourbon Vanilla is known for its antioxidant properties. This means that by using this luxurious ingredient in your baking, you are not only treating your taste buds but also providing a bit of health benefit. Opting for pure Bourbon Vanilla extract ensures that you are getting the best quality and flavor, making your Vanilla Crescent Cookies even more special.

Culinary Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect texture for your Vanilla Crescent Cookies, ensure that your butter is softened but not melted. This allows for better incorporation with the sugar, resulting in a light and fluffy dough. Additionally, avoid overmixing once you add the flour, as this can lead to tougher cookies. Gently folding in the nuts at the end will provide a nice crunch without compromising the tender crumb.

Baking times can vary depending on your oven, so keep a close eye on the cookies as they approach the 15-minute mark. You want them to be lightly golden but not brown. If you find that your cookies are browning too quickly, consider lowering the temperature slightly to ensure even baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular vanilla extract instead of Bourbon Vanilla?

Yes, you can substitute regular vanilla extract, but the flavor will differ slightly.

→ How should I store these cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the dough?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked dough for up to three months. Thaw before baking.

→ What nuts work best in this recipe?

Walnuts and almonds are both excellent choices, but you can use any nut you prefer.