Croatian Vanilla Crescent Cookies (Vanili-Kifli)

These delicious shortbread cookies are a traditional Christmas cookie in Croatia.

1 cup unsalted butter 1 cup Confectioners sugar, divided

1 tsp vanilla extract

1/2 tsp grated lemon zest

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

pinch of salt

1/2 cup finely chopped hazelnuts, walnuts or almonds

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 vanilla bean

In a large bowl, cream butter and 1/2 cup confectioners' sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla and lemon zest. Combine flour and salt; gradually add to creamed mixture and mix well. Stir in nuts.

Shape tablespoonfuls of dough into crescent shapes. Place 2 in. apart on ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375° for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly browned.

Place sugar in a food processor. Split vanilla bean and scrape seeds into food processor. Discard vanilla bean. Pulse mixture until combined. Transfer to a small bowl; stir in remaining confectioners' sugar. Coat warm cookies with sugar mixture. Cool completely on wire racks. Store in an airtight container.

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