Gingerbread Cookies From Germany

2023-04-18

bread

Gingerbread cookies are a classic Christmas treat, but did you know that the traditional recipe for gingerbread cookies actually originated in Germany? German gingerbread cookies, or Lebkuchen, are a traditional treat during the Christmas season. With their spicy flavor and sweet glaze, they make the perfect addition to any holiday gathering. Here’s everything you need to know about making German gingerbread cookies.

Ingredients

To make German gingerbread cookies, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 cup honey
2 eggs
4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 cup confectioners’ sugar
3 tablespoons milk

Instructions

To make German gingerbread cookies, start by preheating the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, cream together the butter, sugar, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg in a large bowl. When the mixture is light and fluffy, add the honey, eggs, and mix until well combined. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Then, roll out the dough to ¼-inch thickness and cut out shapes with cookie cutters. Place the cookies on a greased baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown. When the cookies are finished baking, let them cool completely on a wire rack. To make the glaze, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar and milk until the mixture is smooth and runny. Then, spread the glaze over the cooled cookies and let sit until the glaze is set.

Nutrition

One German gingerbread cookie contains about 140 calories and 6 grams of fat, making them a slightly healthier option than some other holiday treats. They also provide about 21 grams of carbohydrates and 2 grams of protein. Most of the fat in gingerbread cookies comes from the butter, so you can reduce the amount of fat by using a lower-fat spread. You can also reduce the sugar by using a sugar alternative, such as honey or maple syrup.

Serving and Storing

Gingerbread cookies are best served when they are still warm from the oven. You can also store them in an airtight container for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to 6 months.

Variations

You can also try adding other spices and flavorings to your gingerbread cookies. Some popular variations include adding dried fruit, nuts, or chocolate chips. You can also add a few drops of almond or orange extract to the dough for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips and Tricks

When rolling out the dough for your gingerbread cookies, make sure to use plenty of flour to prevent it from sticking to the countertop. You can also chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling it out, which will make it easier to work with. If you’re having trouble getting the cookies off the baking sheet, try using a thin spatula to gently lift them off. You can also place the baking sheet in the freezer for a few minutes to help the cookies release easier.

Conclusion

German gingerbread cookies are a classic Christmas treat that have been enjoyed for centuries. With their spicy flavor and sweet glaze, they make the perfect addition to any holiday gathering. Whether you’re making them as a gift or just for yourself, these cookies are sure to be a hit. So, grab the ingredients and give this traditional recipe a try!