Small "belsnickel" Christmas Cakes Recipe

History of Small "Belsnickel" Christmas Cakes:

Small "Belsnickel" Christmas Cakes are a traditional recipe that has been passed down through generations. This old recipe originated from Aunt Sarah's mother, and it has a unique name that reflects its association with the Belsnickels. The Belsnickels were known to visit the houses of "Bucks County" farmers on Christmas Eve, and they would always be treated to these delicious little Christmas cakes.

The term "Belsnickel" actually comes from the German word "Pelz," which means fur, and "Nickel," which is a familiar form of the name Nicholas. In German folklore, Belsnickel is a character who is associated with the Christmas season. He is often portrayed wearing a long, fur coat and a mask to disguise his identity. Belsnickel would travel from house to house, rewarding well-behaved children with treats and small gifts, while misbehaved children would receive a scolding or a switch.

These Small "Belsnickel" Christmas Cakes were a special treat offered to the Belsnickels as a gesture of hospitality and gratitude for their visit. Today, this recipe is still enjoyed during the holiday season, bringing back memories of the past and adding a touch of nostalgia to the Christmas celebrations.

Recipe for Small "Belsnickel" Christmas Cakes:

Ingredients:
- 2 cups "A" sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoonful baking soda
- 4 eggs
- About 3 cups of flour

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to a moderately hot temperature.
2. In a mixing bowl, mix together the melted butter and the two cups of sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating them into the mixture.
4. Sift the teaspoonful of baking soda several times through the flour.
5. Gradually add the sifted flour to the cake mixture, mixing well until a dough forms. Use as little flour as possible to ensure the dough can be rolled out thinly.
6. Place the dough in a cold place for at least one hour.
7. On a floured board, roll out the dough until it is quite thin.
8. Using a cookie cutter or a small glass, cut out small cakes from the rolled dough.
9. Place the cakes onto a baking sheet and sift granulated sugar thickly over them.
10. Bake the cakes in the preheated oven until lightly golden brown.
11. Allow the cakes to cool before serving.

Fun Facts:
- The Small "Belsnickel" Christmas Cakes are meant to be small in size, creating bite-sized treats that can be enjoyed in one or two bites.
- The recipe does not call for any flavoring, allowing the simple combination of sugar, butter, and eggs to shine through.
- The cakes are meant to be baked lightly, resulting in a delicate and tender texture.
- The cakes can be made ahead of time and stored in a dry, cool place. They have a good shelf life and can last for several weeks, making them perfect for gifting or enjoying throughout the holiday season.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
- Gingerbread Cookies: These spiced cookies are a classic holiday treat that can be shaped into various festive shapes and decorated with icing.
- Fruitcake: Fruitcake is a rich and dense cake filled with dried fruits, nuts, and spices. It is often enjoyed during the Christmas season and can be soaked in alcohol for added richness.
- Shortbread: Shortbread is a buttery and crumbly cookie that originated in Scotland. It is often shaped into traditional shapes or simple rectangles and can be enjoyed plain or dusted with powdered sugar.
- Lebkuchen: Lebkuchen is a traditional German gingerbread cookie that is often enjoyed during the holiday season. It is typically made with honey, spices, almonds, and candied fruits, and can be topped with icing or chocolate.

Enjoy these Small "Belsnickel" Christmas Cakes as a delicious and nostalgic addition to your holiday festivities!