Chocolate Kipferl, or crescent-shaped cookies, are a hallmark of festive baking in Alsace.
These tender, crumbly crescents combine the rich flavours of butter, finely ground hazelnuts, and dark chocolate into a truly irresistible treat.
The gentle sweetness of vanilla sugar pairs beautifully with the depth of hazelnuts and the intensity of chocolate, creating a cookie that melts in your mouth.
To finish, each Kipferl is dipped in dark chocolate, making them as visually appealing as they are delicious.
Perfect for enjoying with coffee or tea, these cookies add a touch of indulgence and festivity to your holiday celebrations.
Chocolate Kipferl: the Recipe
I’ve personally tested this recipe, and the photos are my own—proof that these little Chocolate Kipferl are as delightful to look at as they are to eat!
Share them with loved ones or enjoy them with a warm drink during the holiday festivities.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 150 g (1 1/4 cups) all-purpose flour
- 60 g (1/4 cup) vanilla sugar
- 1 egg yolk
- 120 g (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 100 g (1 cup) ground hazelnuts
- 40 g (1.4 oz) dark chocolate, finely grated
- 1 teaspoon schnaps or water
For the decoration:
- 60 g (2 oz) dark chocolate
- 10 g (1 tablespoon) unsalted butter
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:
1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, vanilla sugar, ground hazelnuts, grated chocolate, schnaps (or water), and egg yolk.
2. Gradually incorporate the softened butter and knead until the dough is smooth and uniform.
3. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours.
Bake the Cookies:
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
5. After the dough has chilled, shape small portions into crescents or “moon” shapes.
6. Arrange the crescents on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
7. Bake for about 12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Let the cookies cool on a wire rack.
Decorate the Kipferl:
9. Melt the dark chocolate and butter together in a double boiler or heatproof bowl over simmering water.
10. Dip the ends of each crescent into the melted chocolate and return them to the wire rack to set.
11. Once the chocolate has hardened, store the Chocolate Kipferl carefully in a tin to keep them fresh.
Final Words about Chocolate Kipferl
Chocolate Kipferl is a beloved treat in Alsace, enjoyed especially during the Christmas season.
Their unique crescent shape and rich nutty flavours make them a standout on any holiday cookie platter.
Whether shared with loved ones or savoured with a warm drink, these cookies bring the festive spirit of Alsace to your home.
Stored properly, they’ll stay delicious for weeks, making them a perfect addition to your holiday baking traditions.
Find out more!
Check out all our Christmas recipes on the blog!
Learn more about the traditions of Alsatian Christmas Cookies
Read it in French! More French Christmas traditions and celebrations
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