Learn how to make authentic Czech beehive cookies, known as Vceli Uly, with this easy-to-follow recipe. These delicious honey-flavored cookies are shaped like beehives and have a delicate texture. Perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- Sliced almonds for decoration
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter, sugar, honey, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, stirring until well combined.
- Cover the dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
- Take a small amount of dough and roll it into a ball.
- Press your thumb in the center of the ball to create a hole and shape it into a beehive by gently pinching the sides.
- Place the shaped beehive cookies onto the prepared baking sheets.
- Press sliced almonds into the sides of the cookies to resemble beehive texture.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes.
- Transfer the cookies onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dough.
- Once cooled, the beehive cookies are ready to be served and enjoyed!
Interesting Facts
Beehive cookies are a traditional Czech dessert often made during holidays or special occasions like weddings.
The beehive shape symbolizes prosperity, fertility, and a sweet life.
Czech people often enjoy these cookies with a cup of tea or coffee.
The sliced almonds on the sides of the cookies resemble the honeycomb texture of a beehive.
This recipe makes about 24 beehive cookies.