Traditional Springerles Recipe from Germany with Powdered Sugar, Eggs, Potash, Rind, and Flour

Springerles

Traditional Springerles Recipe from Germany with Powdered Sugar, Eggs, Potash, Rind, and Flour
Region / culture: Germany | Servings: 12

Introduction

Springerles
Springerles

Springerles are traditional German Christmas cookies that are known for their intricate designs and delicious flavor. These cookies are made with a simple dough that is pressed into molds to create beautiful patterns. They are then left to dry before being baked to perfection. Springerles are a delightful treat that is perfect for the holiday season.

History

Springerles have been a popular Christmas treat in Germany for centuries. The name "springerle" comes from the German word "springen," which means to jump or rise. These cookies were traditionally made by German bakers as a way to celebrate the holiday season. The intricate designs on the cookies were often used to tell stories or convey messages to loved ones. Today, Springerles are still a beloved holiday treat in Germany and around the world.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Stir together 1 lb (454 g) of powdered sugar and 4 eggs until thoroughly combined.
  2. Next, add 2 knife-points of cleaned potash and the grated rind of 1 lemon.
  3. Once well mixed, add 1 lb (454 g) of fine flour.
  4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of 0.25 inch, ensuring that the moulds are well-floured before pressing out the cakes.
  5. Carefully remove the cakes from the moulds and place them on a board covered with anise-seed, with the figure-side facing up.
  6. Set aside in a cold place for 12 hours, then transfer to pans and bake in a hot oven.

Variations

  • Add a touch of almond extract to the dough for a nutty flavor.
  • Dust the cookies with powdered sugar before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.

Notes

  1. Work the dough as cold as possible.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to flour your molds well before pressing out the cookies to ensure they come out easily.

- Let the cookies dry for at least 12 hours before baking to help them hold their shape.

- Be sure to bake the cookies in a hot oven to ensure they cook evenly and develop a nice golden color.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Springerles with a cup of hot tea or coffee for a delightful holiday treat.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to roll out the dough to an even thickness to ensure the cookies bake evenly.

- Press the dough firmly into the molds to create clear, defined patterns on the cookies.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have potash, you can substitute baking powder in a 1:1 ratio.

- Lemon zest can be substituted with orange zest for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Springerles can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container for up to a week.

Presentation Ideas

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

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Springerles with a glass of mulled wine or hot cider for a cozy holiday treat.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Springerles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. To reheat, place in a 300°F oven for a few minutes until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Springerles contains approximately 150 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Springerles contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Springerles contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Springerles contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Springerles are not a significant source of vitamins or minerals.

Alergens

Springerles contain eggs and wheat flour, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Springerles are a delicious holiday treat that is relatively low in calories and fat. They are a great option for those looking for a festive dessert that won't break the calorie bank.

Summary

Springerles are a delightful holiday treat that is perfect for Christmas celebrations. These cookies are easy to make and can be customized with different flavors and designs. Serve them with a cup of tea or coffee for a festive treat that is sure to impress your guests.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Springerles. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were falling and the air was filled with the scent of spices and baked goods. I was walking through the bustling farmer's market in town, browsing the various stalls and sampling the delicious treats on offer.

As I wandered past the bakery stall, a lovely elderly woman caught my eye. She was busy rolling out dough and cutting it into intricate shapes with a wooden mold. Curious, I stopped to watch her work. She noticed me and smiled warmly, inviting me to come closer.

"Would you like to try a Springerle?" she asked, holding out a beautifully decorated cookie. I eagerly accepted, taking a bite of the sweet, anise-flavored treat. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before - light and delicate, with a hint of spice that lingered on my tongue.

I asked the woman for the recipe, eager to learn how to make these delectable cookies myself. She chuckled and told me that the recipe had been passed down through generations of her family, originating in Germany. She explained that Springerles were traditionally made during the holidays, using a special wooden mold to create intricate designs on the cookies.

I was captivated by the history and tradition behind the recipe, and I knew that I had to learn how to make them myself. The woman kindly offered to teach me, and we spent the afternoon baking together in her cozy kitchen. She showed me how to mix the dough, roll it out, and press it into the molds to create beautiful patterns.

As the cookies baked in the oven, the kitchen filled with the warm, spicy aroma of anise and citrus. I watched in awe as the Springerles emerged golden and fragrant, each one a work of art in its own right. The woman explained that the cookies needed to be stored for a few weeks before they reached their full flavor, allowing the anise to mellow and the texture to become crisp and tender.

I left the woman's kitchen that day with a tin full of Springerles and a heart full of gratitude. I had stumbled upon a treasure trove of knowledge and tradition, and I couldn't wait to share this newfound recipe with my family and friends.

Over the years, I have continued to make Springerles during the holidays, passing down the recipe to my children and grandchildren. Each batch is a labor of love, a testament to the time-honored tradition that began with that chance encounter at the farmer's market.

As I roll out the dough and press it into the wooden molds, I can't help but smile as I remember the kind woman who shared her knowledge and passion with me all those years ago. Her legacy lives on in every batch of Springerles I bake, a reminder of the joy and connection that can be found in the simple act of sharing a recipe. And as I sit down to enjoy a freshly baked cookie with a cup of tea, I am filled with gratitude for the serendipitous moment that led me to this delicious tradition.

Categories

| Christmas Cookie Recipes | Cookie Recipes | Egg Recipes | German Desserts | German Recipes | Lemon Peel Recipes | Potash Recipes | Wheat Flour Recipes |

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