Directions
Figure-eight cookies are more than just a beautiful festive treat – they carry symbolism and meaning. The figure-eight, as a symbol of infinity, reminds us of everlasting love and the light that comes into our homes during Christmas Eve.
During the days when we celebrate the birth of Jesus, every family feels the warmth of togetherness, the joy of giving, and the light that brings hope. The figure-eight shape is a subtle and beautiful way to connect that endless light with the taste and aroma of homemade cookies, creating moments that will remain in everyone’s memory around the festive table.
From simple cookies, through careful decoration and love, I transformed them into tiny works of art that can inspire and take a special place on your holiday table.
Recipe for Christmas Figure-Eight Cookies (Vegan/Fasting-Friendly)
Ingredients for dough (about 10 cookies, risen dough ~450 g)
- Flour: about 300 g
- Water: 150 ml (lukewarm)
- Fresh yeast: 5 g (or 2 g dry yeast)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Sunflower oil: 20–25 g
For decoration
- Poppy seeds
- Flax seeds
- Sesame seeds
- Black sesame seeds
- Sunflower seeds
- Fresh thyme
- Fresh rosemary
Preparation
- Prepare the dough:
- Dissolve the yeast in a little lukewarm water and let it activate for 5 minutes.
- Mix the flour and salt in a large bowl, then add the water with yeast. Knead until the dough becomes soft and smooth.
- Add the sunflower oil and knead briefly more.
- Let the dough rise:
- Cover with a cloth and leave in a warm place for about 45 minutes until it doubles in volume (you’ll have about 450 g dough).
- Shape the figure-eights
- Divide the dough into 10 equal pieces (about 45 g each).
- Roll each piece into a thin “rope” and join the ends to form a figure-eight shape.
- Decoration
- Brush the cookies lightly with water and sprinkle with poppy seeds, flax seeds, sesame, black sesame, and sunflower seeds.
- Add fresh sprigs of thyme and rosemary for an even more festive look.
- Baking
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) and bake for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.
✨ These cookies are perfect for Christmas Eve – they bring light, symbolism, and flavor that awakens the spirit of the holiday. Each cookie is a small sign of endless love and the bond between family and friends.
