Nussecken (German Nut Corners)

Name: Nussecken (German Nut Corners)
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1 pinch salt; 1 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 tbsp water; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 2 cups chopped hazelnuts or almonds (or a mix of both); 1 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate, melted

Isabella

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Nussecken, or German Nut Corners, are a classic dessert loved for their chewy texture and indulgent flavor. These bars feature a buttery crust topped with caramelized nuts and dipped in rich chocolate. Perfect for holidays, gifting, or everyday indulgence, they’re a delightful treat for all occasions. Discover how to make these irresistible cookie bars with ease.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

2 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 large egg

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp baking powder

1 pinch salt

For the Nut Topping:

1 cup unsalted butter

1 cup granulated sugar

2 tbsp water

1 tbsp vanilla extract

2 cups chopped hazelnuts or almonds (or a mix of both)

For the Chocolate Dip:

1 cup dark or semi-sweet chocolate, melted

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper.

In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the egg, vanilla extract, and salt, mixing until combined.

Gradually mix in the flour and baking powder to form a smooth dough.

Press the dough evenly into the prepared pan to create a thin layer.

Make the Nut Topping:

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter.

Stir in sugar, water, and vanilla until smooth.

Remove from heat and fold in the chopped nuts.

Spread the nut mixture evenly over the dough layer.

Bake and Cool:

Bake for 25–30 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.

Allow the pan to cool completely before cutting.

Cut and Dip:

Once cooled, cut the baked sheet into 2-inch triangles.

Melt chocolate in 30-second microwave intervals, stirring until smooth.

Dip each corner of the triangles into the melted chocolate and place them on parchment paper to set.

Allow the chocolate to harden before serving.

Serving Tips:

Perfect for Tea Time: Nussecken are ideal for serving alongside your favorite hot beverages like tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.

Festive Presentation: Serve these nutty bars on a platter for special occasions, holiday gatherings, or dessert parties. The elegant appearance of the chocolate-dipped corners makes them a standout treat.

Portioning: These cookie bars can be cut into smaller squares or triangles for bite-sized servings, making them easy to share with guests.

Storage Tips:

Room Temperature: Store Nussecken in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. The nut topping will remain fresh and the chocolate will stay firm.

Refrigeration: If you prefer a firmer texture, you can refrigerate them, but make sure they are tightly sealed in a container to prevent the chocolate from becoming too hard.

Freezing: Nussecken freeze well for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, and then transfer to an airtight container or zip-top bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw at room temperature for a few hours.

Related Recipes:

German Potato Pancakes

FAQs:

Can I use other nuts besides hazelnuts or almonds?

Yes, you can customize the recipe with your favorite nuts! Walnuts, pecans, or even macadamia nuts work well and add unique flavors to the topping.

Do I have to dip the corners in chocolate?

While dipping in chocolate adds a delicious touch, it’s optional. You can drizzle melted chocolate over the bars or skip it entirely if you prefer a less sweet treat.

Can I make Nussecken ahead of time?

Absolutely! Nussecken can be made a few days in advance. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate to keep them fresh. They also freeze well for up to 2 months.

What is the best way to cut Nussecken into triangles?

Allow the baked sheet to cool completely before cutting to prevent crumbling. Use a sharp knife and cut straight across the pan into squares, then diagonally into triangles for a neat and uniform shape.

Conclusion:

Nussecken are a delightful combination of buttery crust, nutty caramel topping, and rich chocolate that will impress any dessert lover. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, these German Nut Corners are sure to become a favorite. Try them today and enjoy the delicious tradition!