Gingerbread cookies

Gingerbread Cookies Recipe from Germany - Ingredients and Steps

Region / culture: Germany | Preparation time: 1 hour | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 24

Introduction

Gingerbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that are loved by many. The warm spices and sweet molasses make these cookies perfect for enjoying with a cup of hot cocoa or tea during the winter months.

History

Gingerbread has been around for centuries, with the first recorded recipe dating back to the 15th century in Europe. It was originally made with breadcrumbs, honey, and ginger, and was often shaped into figures or houses. Over time, the recipe evolved to include more ingredients like molasses, spices, and flour, resulting in the gingerbread cookies we know and love today.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of applesauce
0.5 cup of brown sugar
1 and 0.5 cups of dark molasses
0.5 cup of cold water
3 cups of white flour
3 cups of whole wheat flour
2 tbsp of allspice
2 tbsp of ginger
2 tbsp of cloves
2 tbsp of cinnamon
2 tbsp of vanilla
2 tbsp of baking soda
0.5 tbsp of salt
1 tbsp of cold water

How to prepare

Thoroughly mix the applesauce, brown sugar, and molasses. Stir in 0.5 cup of cold water and vanilla. Combine the dry ingredients and add them to the dough. Add 1 tsp of cold water and mix well. Cover the bowl and chill the dough for at least one hour. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Roll out the dough to a thickness of 0.5 inch. Use a small glass (1-2 inches in diameter) to cut out shapes. Place these on a lightly oiled cookie sheet. Bake for about 10 minutes, or until no imprint remains when touched lightly with a finger. Note: This recipe is from Sonja and William Conner's book, The New American Diet (page 365).

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit to the dough for extra texture and flavor.
Drizzle with icing or dip in chocolate for a decadent touch.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to chill the dough before rolling it out to make it easier to work with.

- Use a small glass to cut out shapes for uniform cookies.

- Don't overbake the cookies, as they can become hard and lose their chewy texture.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy gingerbread cookies with a glass of milk or a cup of tea for a cozy treat.

Cooking Techniques

Chill the dough before rolling it out for easier handling.

- Use a small glass to cut out shapes for uniform cookies.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use honey or maple syrup instead of molasses for a different flavor.

- Substitute gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of these cookies.

Make Ahead Tips

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

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the cookies on a festive platter and dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Enjoy gingerbread cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or spiced cider for a delicious holiday treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store 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 gingerbread cookies contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

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

Fats

Each serving of gingerbread cookies contains approximately 3 grams of fat.

Proteins

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

Vitamins and minerals

Gingerbread cookies contain small amounts of iron, calcium, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains wheat and may contain traces of nuts.

Summary

Gingerbread cookies are a sweet treat that are relatively low in fat and calories, making them a great option for a holiday indulgence.

Summary

Gingerbread cookies are a classic holiday treat that are easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy the warm spices and sweet molasses in every bite!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement I felt when I first saw this recipe for gingerbread cookies. It was many years ago, on a chilly autumn day, when I was visiting my dear friend Margaret. She had invited me into her cozy kitchen to help her prepare for the upcoming holiday season. As we chatted and laughed, Margaret pulled out an old, tattered cookbook from her shelf and flipped through the pages until she landed on the recipe for gingerbread cookies.

"Ah, here it is!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with delight. "These gingerbread cookies are a family favorite. They're perfect for the holidays."

I leaned in closer to read the ingredients and instructions. As I scanned the list of spices and sugars, I could almost smell the warm, comforting scent of gingerbread wafting through the air. Margaret handed me a mixing bowl and a wooden spoon, encouraging me to give the recipe a try.

With Margaret's guidance, I measured out the flour, sugar, and spices, carefully blending them together until the dough formed a smooth, fragrant mass. The kitchen was filled with the delicious aroma of cinnamon and cloves, making my stomach growl in anticipation. Margaret chuckled at my eagerness, reminding me that patience was key when it came to baking.

As we rolled out the dough and cut it into festive shapes, I couldn't help but marvel at how the simple act of baking could bring so much joy and warmth to a home. Margaret shared with me stories of her own grandmother, who had passed down the recipe for gingerbread cookies through generations. She spoke of holiday traditions and cherished memories, all centered around the delicious treat we were creating together.

After the cookies had baked to a golden perfection, we let them cool on wire racks before decorating them with colorful icing and sprinkles. Margaret's kitchen was alive with the sound of laughter and chatter as we worked side by side, creating edible works of art that would soon be shared with friends and family.

When the cookies were finally finished, we sat down at the kitchen table with steaming mugs of tea and a plate of warm gingerbread cookies. As we savored the spicy, sweet flavor of our creations, Margaret leaned back in her chair with a contented sigh.

"Isn't it amazing how a simple recipe can bring people together and create lasting memories?" she mused, her eyes shining with nostalgia.

I nodded in agreement, feeling grateful for the time spent with my dear friend and the lessons learned in her kitchen that day. The recipe for gingerbread cookies had not only taught me how to bake a delicious treat, but it had also reminded me of the importance of tradition, connection, and love.

As I packed up a tin of cookies to take home with me, Margaret pressed a piece of paper into my hand. It was a handwritten copy of the gingerbread cookie recipe, complete with notes and tips from her own experiences. I smiled gratefully, knowing that I would treasure this gift and pass it on to future generations in my own family.

And so, every holiday season, I find myself returning to Margaret's recipe for gingerbread cookies, feeling her presence in my kitchen as I mix and roll and bake. The scent of cinnamon and cloves fills the air, bringing back memories of laughter, warmth, and friendship.

I am grateful for the day I first saw that recipe, for it has not only given me a delicious treat to enjoy, but it has also brought me closer to the ones I love. In every bite of a gingerbread cookie, I taste the sweetness of tradition and the warmth of shared moments with those who matter most. And for that, I am truly thankful.