Amish Christmas Cookies

Introduction

History

The recipe for Amish Christmas Cookies dates back to the early settlements of the Amish in America. It is a testament to their simple, yet rich lifestyle. The use of molasses, spices, and butter reflects the ingredients that were readily available to them. Over the years, this recipe has been passed down through generations, each adding their own touch but keeping the essence of the original recipe alive.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Amish Christmas Cookies come out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly to create a light and fluffy base.

- When adding molasses, ensure it is at room temperature to blend smoothly with the other ingredients.

- Sift the dry ingredients to avoid any lumps and ensure even distribution of spices.

- Roll the dough to an even thickness to ensure uniform baking.

- Keep an eye on the oven as baking times may vary slightly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cookies with a warm cup of milk or your favorite holiday beverage. They also make a beautiful addition to any holiday cookie platter or as a homemade gift, wrapped in festive packaging.

Cooking Techniques

For a softer cookie, bake for the minimum time suggested. For a crisper texture, extend the baking time by a few minutes. Ensure even baking by rotating the cookie sheets halfway through the baking time.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version, substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. If molasses is too strong for your taste, try using honey or maple syrup as a substitute, adjusting the quantity to achieve the desired sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough for Amish Christmas Cookies can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before rolling out and baking.

Presentation Ideas

Dust the cookies with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple icing for a festive touch. Use holiday-themed cookie cutters to make the cookies extra special.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair these cookies with a glass of eggnog or mulled cider for a comforting holiday treat. They also go well with a robust cup of coffee or tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the baked cookies for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Amish Christmas Cookies contains approximately 200 calories. This makes them a hearty treat, perfect for enjoying in moderation during the holiday festivities.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Amish Christmas Cookies contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of these carbohydrates is the brown sugar and molasses, which provide the cookies with their distinctive flavor and texture.

Fats

A single serving of these cookies contains about 8 grams of fat, primarily from the butter. This contributes to the rich and tender crumb of the cookies.

Proteins

Amish Christmas Cookies contain a modest amount of protein, approximately 2 grams per serving, coming mainly from the egg and flour.

Vitamins and minerals

These cookies provide small amounts of vitamins and minerals, including calcium and iron, which are present in the molasses and flour.

Alergens

Key allergens in this recipe include gluten (from flour), eggs, and dairy (from butter). Those with sensitivities should take note.

Summary

Amish Christmas Cookies are a rich source of carbohydrates and fats, with modest protein content. They are calorie-dense treats best enjoyed in moderation, with consideration for potential allergens.

Summary

Amish Christmas Cookies are a timeless treat that embodies the spirit of the holiday season. With their rich flavors and tender texture, they are sure to bring joy to any holiday gathering. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your own twist, these cookies are a delightful way to celebrate the season.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory. It was a cold winter day, just a few weeks before Christmas. I had been invited to a traditional Amish Christmas gathering by my dear friend Sarah. As we sat around the table enjoying the delicious spread of food that had been prepared, I couldn't help but notice the beautiful array of cookies that adorned the dessert table.

I asked Sarah about the cookies, and she smiled warmly before telling me that they were Amish Christmas cookies, a treasured family recipe that had been passed down for generations. She then handed me a piece of paper with the recipe written on it, explaining that it was a tradition for each guest to take a copy of the recipe home with them.

I was thrilled and grateful for the gift, and as I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could feel the excitement building in my heart. I couldn't wait to try my hand at making these delicious cookies in my own kitchen.

The following week, I gathered all of the necessary ingredients and set to work. The recipe was simple and straightforward, but it required a lot of love and care to ensure that the cookies turned out just right.

I started by creaming together butter and sugar until it was light and fluffy. Then, I added in eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. In a separate bowl, I sifted together flour, baking powder, and salt before gradually adding it to the wet ingredients. The dough came together beautifully, and I couldn't resist sneaking a taste of the sweet, buttery mixture.

After chilling the dough for a few hours, I rolled it out on a floured surface and cut out shapes using a variety of festive cookie cutters. I carefully transferred the cookies to a baking sheet and popped them in the oven, eagerly anticipating the moment when I would get to taste the finished product.

As the cookies baked, my kitchen filled with the warm, comforting aroma of butter and sugar mingling with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. I couldn't help but smile as I watched the cookies rise and turn golden brown in the oven.

When they were finally done, I pulled them out and let them cool on a wire rack. I couldn't wait any longer, so I grabbed one of the cookies and took a bite. The taste was beyond anything I could have imagined - buttery and rich, with a delicate hint of spice that lingered on my tongue.

I knew then and there that these cookies would become a staple in my holiday baking repertoire. I made another batch to share with my family and friends, and they were met with rave reviews.

Since that day, I have continued to make these Amish Christmas cookies year after year, always remembering the moment when I first discovered the recipe and the joy it brought me. Each time I bake a batch, I am reminded of the warmth and generosity of my Amish friends, and I am grateful for the tradition they have shared with me.

As I sit here now, surrounded by the comforting scent of baking cookies and the twinkling lights of the Christmas tree, I can't help but feel a sense of peace and contentment. These cookies are more than just a delicious treat - they are a symbol of love, friendship, and the joy of the holiday season. And for that, I am eternally grateful.

Categories

| Amish Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Christmas Cookies | Cinnamon Recipes | Clove Recipes | Cookie Recipes | Molasses Recipes | Nutmeg Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients