Vosí hnízda — literally “wasps’ nests” — are a beloved Czech Christmas classic. Traditionally filled with rum-flavored cream, these no-bake cookies get a modern twist here with a touch of fresh rosemary. The herb’s gentle, earthy flavor pairs beautifully with the cocoa dough and sweet filling, creating a festive treat that’s both familiar and surprising.
For the dough:
- 200 g (7 oz) ground vanilla wafers or cookies
- 100 g (3.5 oz) powdered sugar
- 100 g (3.5 oz) softened butter
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons rum
For the filling:
- 100 g (3.5 oz) softened butter
- 80 g (2.75 oz) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon rum
Also:
- Vanilla wafers (to serve as the cookie base)
Instructions:
Mix the ground cookies, powdered sugar, and cocoa powder. Add the softened butter and rum, and knead into a smooth, pliable dough. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, prepare the filling: beat the softened butter with powdered sugar until creamy, then add the rum.
Roll the dough into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Using your finger or the end of a wooden spoon handle, gently press a hollow into each ball.
Fill each hollow with the butter cream and place the “nests” on top of vanilla wafer cookies or another small, flat cookie base (such as Nilla Wafers or butter cookies).
Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
This recipe is an excerpt from My Herbs 34. If you enjoyed it, you can purchase the full issue in print or digital or subscribe to My Herbs to receive every new issue filled with inspiring articles and practical herbal wisdom.
