Crispy Gingerbread Cookies

Crispy Gingerbread Cookies Recipe from Germany

Region / culture: Germany | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 24 cookies

Introduction

Gingerbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that are loved by many. These crispy gingerbread cookies are perfect for enjoying during the festive season or any time of year. The combination of warm spices like ginger and cinnamon make these cookies a delicious and comforting treat.

History

Gingerbread has been enjoyed for centuries, with its origins dating back to ancient Greece and Egypt. The recipe for gingerbread cookies as we know them today can be traced back to medieval Europe, where they were often shaped into intricate designs and used as decorations. Over time, gingerbread cookies became a popular treat during the holiday season, especially in countries like Germany and Sweden.

Ingredients

0.67 cup (~160 g) of packed light brown sugar
0.67 cup (~160 g) of molasses
1 tsp of ginger
1 tsp of cinnamon
0.5 tsp of salt
1.5 tsp (0.5 tbsp) of baking soda
0.67 cup (~160 g) of butter
1 egg
4 cups (1 qt (946 ml)) of flour

How to prepare

Put sugar, molasses, spices, and salt into a large saucepan.
Bring to a boil and remove from heat.
Add the baking soda and butter, and stir until the butter melts.
Quickly stir in the egg, and then add the flour. Mix well.
Chill for several hours until firm enough to roll.
Preheat the oven to 325°F (170°C).
Roll out the dough until thin on a lightly floured surface.
Cut with cookie cutters and place on a cookie sheet sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
Bake for about 15 minutes at 325°F (170°C), and cool on racks.
Cookies can be decorated with Royal Icing.

Variations

Add a sprinkle of sugar on top of the cookies before baking for extra sweetness.
Use different shaped cookie cutters to create fun designs.
Add a touch of orange zest for a citrusy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out to ensure it is firm enough to work with.

- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking.

- Use cookie cutters to create fun shapes for your gingerbread cookies.

- Keep an eye on the cookies while baking to prevent them from burning.

- Allow the cookies to cool completely before decorating with icing.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these crispy gingerbread cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or a glass of milk for a cozy treat.

Cooking Techniques

Boiling the sugar and molasses together helps to create a rich and flavorful base for the cookies.

- Chilling the dough before rolling it out helps to prevent the cookies from spreading too much while baking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar for a richer flavor.

- If you don't have molasses, you can substitute with honey or maple syrup.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make the dough for these gingerbread cookies ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Decorate these crispy gingerbread cookies with royal icing, sprinkles, or edible glitter for a festive touch.

Pairing Recommendations

These gingerbread cookies pair well with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store these crispy gingerbread cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of these crispy gingerbread cookies contains approximately 170 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of these crispy gingerbread cookies contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of these crispy gingerbread cookies contains approximately 7 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of these crispy gingerbread cookies contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Gingerbread cookies contain small amounts of vitamins and minerals, including iron and calcium.

Alergens

These gingerbread cookies contain wheat, eggs, and dairy.

Summary

These crispy gingerbread cookies are a delicious treat that are relatively low in calories and contain small amounts of fat and protein. They are a great option for those looking for a festive dessert that is not overly indulgent.

Summary

These crispy gingerbread cookies are a delicious and festive treat that are perfect for enjoying during the holiday season. With warm spices and a crispy texture, these cookies are sure to be a hit with family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Crispy Gingerbread Cookies. It was a chilly December afternoon and my dear friend Martha had invited me over to her cozy kitchen for a baking session. Martha was known in our small town for her delicious baked goods, and I was eager to learn some of her secrets.

As soon as I walked into her kitchen, I was enveloped in the warm, comforting scent of spices and sugar. Martha greeted me with a smile and handed me a cup of hot tea. We chatted about our families and the upcoming holidays as we gathered our ingredients for the gingerbread cookies.

Martha began by mixing together flour, sugar, and spices in a large mixing bowl. She explained that the key to crispy gingerbread cookies was to use a combination of ground ginger, cinnamon, and cloves for a flavorful kick. As she added molasses and butter to the dry ingredients, the dough began to form a sticky, fragrant mass.

I watched in awe as Martha expertly rolled out the dough on a floured surface and used cookie cutters to create perfect gingerbread men shapes. She carefully transferred the cutouts to a baking sheet and placed them in the oven to bake.

As the cookies baked, Martha shared the story behind the recipe. She had learned it from her own grandmother, who had immigrated to the United States from Germany many years ago. The recipe had been passed down through generations, each baker adding their own twist to make it their own.

I listened intently as Martha reminisced about baking gingerbread cookies with her grandmother as a child. She described the joy of rolling out the dough and decorating the cookies with colorful icing and candies. The tradition had continued with her own children and grandchildren, creating cherished memories that would last a lifetime.

When the timer dinged, Martha pulled the golden brown cookies out of the oven. The kitchen was filled with the warm, spicy aroma of freshly baked gingerbread. I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into one of the crispy cookies.

As Martha handed me a cookie, I took a bite and savored the crunchy texture and rich flavor. The combination of molasses, spices, and butter melted in my mouth, leaving behind a lingering sweetness that was irresistible. I knew I had to learn how to make these cookies for my own family.

Martha graciously shared her recipe with me, writing it down on a worn index card that had been passed down through the generations. I promised to carry on the tradition of baking crispy gingerbread cookies with my loved ones, creating new memories to cherish for years to come.

Since that day, I have made Martha's crispy gingerbread cookies every holiday season, delighting my family and friends with the sweet, spicy treats. The recipe has become a beloved tradition in our household, a reminder of the time-honored connection between food, family, and love.

I am grateful to Martha for sharing her recipe with me and for introducing me to the joy of baking. The crispy gingerbread cookies will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of tradition and the importance of passing down recipes from generation to generation.

And so, every holiday season, as I mix together flour, sugar, and spices in my own kitchen, I think of Martha and her grandmother, and I am filled with gratitude for the gift of their cherished recipe. The crispy gingerbread cookies will forever be a symbol of love, connection, and the simple pleasures of homemade baking.