Introduction
Gingerbread cookies, known as “ciasteczka piernikowe” in Polish, are a delightful treat often enjoyed during the holiday season. With their warm spices and sweet aroma, these cookies bring comfort and joy to those who bake and consume them. This traditional recipe not only yields delicious cookies but also fills your home with a festive spirit.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Flour: 500 g
Honey: 200 g
Brown sugar: 100 g
Butter: 100 g
Baking soda: 1 tsp
Ground ginger: 2 tsp
Cinnamon: 2 tsp
Ground cloves: 1 tsp
Egg: 1
Salt: 1/2 tsp
Optional: Icing for decoration
Prep Time
The preparation time for gingerbread cookies is approximately 30 minutes. This includes measuring and mixing the ingredients, as well as getting your baking sheets ready.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time for the cookies is about 10-12 minutes per batch. The total time, including prep and bake time, is roughly 1 hour. This recipe typically yields about 30 cookies, depending on the size of your cutter. Enjoy these delightful treats with family and friends!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and spices (ginger, cinnamon, cloves). Mix well and set aside.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat the butter with sugar until light and fluffy. Add the egg, honey, and molasses. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a thick dough forms.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 5: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 0.5 cm (0.2 inches).
Step 7: Cut Out Cookies
Use cookie cutters to cut out various shapes from the rolled dough and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Step 8: Bake the Cookies
Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are firm.
Step 9: Cool the Cookies
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
Step 10: Decorate (Optional)
Once cooled, you can decorate the cookies with icing or powdered sugar if desired.
Notes
Note 1: Spice Adjustments
Feel free to adjust the amounts of spices based on your personal preference for stronger or milder flavors.
Note 2: Storage
Store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh for up to two weeks.
Note 3: Alternative Sweeteners
You can substitute honey with maple syrup or agave syrup if you prefer a different sweetening option.
Note 4: Vegan Option
For a vegan version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and the egg with a flax egg or applesauce.
