In Germany, we have different names for different types of cakes. Most of them are simply called »Kuchen«, which means »cake«, d’oh! But then there are also »Torten« – big layer cakes with some kind of cream involved and often nicely decorated. Well… and then there is something called Linzer Torte – just from the name, you might think »oh, that must be a big one then«, but it’s not. It actually looks more like a flat tart. The wonders of German language. ;P
A visit to a German Christmas market without candied almonds would only be half as good, right? We always end up with a small bag of them in our pockets. In recent years, however, variations of classic candied almonds have become increasingly popular. Almonds that have been given an extra layer, like these delicious Candied Almonds with Kinder Chocolate. Absolute delicacies! If you like Kinder Chocolate, you’re sure to love these candied and coated almonds! I’ve never met anyone who didn’t like this sweet treat. ;P
The weeks before Christmas are the time for Christmas markets, mulled wine, bratwurst and candied almonds aka. »gebrannte Mandeln«. You can smell the nuts basically everywhere. Sooo good! Instead of just enjoying the smell of the nuts and nibbling on them, you can use them for baking as well. These Candied Almonds & Chocolate Nougat Cookies are the perfect sweet treat to use up »leftover nuts«… should there be any leftover after a visit to the Christmas market. ;P
There are some recipes that you make over and over again. For us, these Chocolate Amarettini Cookies are one of these recipes. A family favorite! I don’t know how many times I’ve baked them… and not just around Christmas. These little almond-chocolaty balls are great all year round! Why limit yourself to just a few weeks of the year when everyone likes it? ;P
This is a sweet and tasty snack that everyone knows from the Christmas market – Roasted (Candied) Almonds are very popular here in Germany. A little bag of these almonds can be quite expensive at the Christmas market, though. Well, why not make them from scratch at home? It’s an easy task and the result is equally delicious. No need to spend your hard-earned money on a Christmas market ;P
Delicious cookies come in an almost infinite number of variations, sizes, and flavors. One reason why I love baking cookies so much. A simple recipe can be adapted easily, and the result can be completely different. For these White Toblerone Honey Almond Cookies I used delicious Toblerone chocolate – something I did already several times for very different cookies ;)
I love my job, but in between I love to bake and try new things in the kitchen. A lot of my friends and colleagues encourage me to bake - for a very simple reason: they get the leftovers - and it seems they like it most of the time ;) 
