Kolcheh Nowrozi - Persian New Year Cookies

Ingredients

• 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour 250g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
• 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened 200g (1 cup) unsalted butter, softened
• 100g (1/2 cup) powdered sugar 100g (1/2 cup) powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon rosewater 1 teaspoon rosewater
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• Pinch of salt Pinch of salt
• Slivered pistachios, for garnish Slivered pistachios, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories: 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat: 8g (5g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 11g (3g sugars)
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
2. 2.
   Add the rosewater and ground cardamom to the butter mixture and mix well.
3. 3.
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. 4.
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix until a soft dough forms.
5. 5.
   Divide the dough into small portions and shape each portion into a flower-like design.
6. 6.
   Place the shaped cookies on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. 7.
   Garnish each cookie with slivered pistachios.
8. 8.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake the cookies for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
9. 9.
   Allow the cookies to cool completely before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier creaming with the powdered sugar.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced floral flavor, you can increase the amount of rosewater slightly.
• If you prefer a stronger cardamom taste, you can add an additional 1/4 teaspoon of ground cardamom to the dough.
• To achieve a more delicate texture, avoid overmixing the dough.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Serving advice

Serve these Kolcheh Nowrozi cookies on a decorative platter during Nowruz celebrations. They pair perfectly with a cup of Persian tea or coffee.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Kolcheh Nowrozi cookies in a circular pattern, resembling a blooming flower, on a serving tray. Dust them with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant touch.