15 German Christmas Cookie Recipes (Traditional & Tasty)

Lebkuchen (German Gingerbread)

Lebkuchen, often referred to as German gingerbread, is a traditional treat typically enjoyed during the Christmas season. These spiced cookies can vary in texture and flavor, often featuring a delightful balance of sweetness from honey and molasses, combined with warming spices like ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom. They are often decorated with icing or nuts, and their rich flavors make them a festive favorite.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground ginger, nutmeg, and ground cloves. Mix them well to guarantee that the spices are evenly distributed.
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the honey, light brown sugar, and molasses until the mixture is smooth. Then, add the egg and lemon zest, whisking until everything is well incorporated.
3. Combine the Mixtures: Gradually add the wet ingredient mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring continuously to form a dough. It will be sticky and thick. Once everything is combined, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for better flavor.
4. Preheat the Oven: When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. Shape the Cookies: Once the dough is chilled, take a portion of it and roll it out on a floured surface to about ½ inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes. If you prefer, you can also form small balls (about 1-inch diameter) and flatten them slightly.
6. Add Toppings: If using, press chopped walnuts or almonds gently onto the top of each cookie.
7. Bake the Cookies: Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes or until they are firm but not browned.
8. Cool and Ice: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cool, make icing by mixing confectioners’ sugar with water until you reach the desired consistency, then decorate the cookies as you like.
9. Enjoy: Once decorated, your Lebkuchen is ready to be enjoyed! Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh during the holiday season.

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Vanillekipferl (Vanilla Crescent Cookies)

Vanillekipferl, or vanilla crescent cookies, are delightful, buttery treats that are a quintessential part of German Christmas baking. These crescent-shaped cookies are made with ground nuts and have a sweet, aromatic vanilla flavor, often dusted with powdered sugar after baking, giving them a snowy appearance that complements the festive season.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground almonds (or hazelnuts), powdered sugar, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly to guarantee they are evenly combined.
2. Add Butter: Add the softened butter to the dry mixture. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the mixture. Mix until the dough comes together. It should be smooth and cohesive. If the dough seems too crumbly, you can add a teaspoon of cold water to help it bind.
4. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes. This will make it easier to shape the cookies.
5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Shape the Cookies: Take the chilled dough and, using your hands, form small pieces of dough into crescent shapes, about 2 inches long. Place them on the lined baking sheets, leaving a bit of space between each cookie.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they are lightly golden on the bottom but still pale on top.
8. Dust with Powdered Sugar: Once baked, allow the cookies to cool slightly on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. While they are still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Let the cookies cool completely before serving. Vanillekipferl pairs wonderfully with tea or coffee and is a cherished treat during the festive season. Enjoy!

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Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars)

Zimtsterne, or cinnamon stars, are traditional German Christmas cookies known for their delightful blend of spices and nutty flavor. These star-shaped treats are made primarily with ground nuts, cinnamon, and a delightful meringue topping, making them not only delicious but also visually appealing during the festive season. They are often enjoyed with a cup of tea or coffee, adding warmth and cheer to holiday gatherings.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (162°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground almonds, powdered sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Mix well to guarantee that all the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Whisk Egg Whites: In a separate bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy. Add the lemon juice and continue whisking until soft peaks form.
4. Fold in Egg Whites: Gently fold the egg whites into the almond mixture, along with the vanilla extract. Mix until a sticky dough forms. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites too much to maintain the light texture.
5. Chill the Dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to make it easier to roll out.
6. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly dusted surface with powdered sugar, roll out the chilled dough to about ¼-inch thick. Use star-shaped cookie cutters to cut out cookies, and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Make Meringue Topping: In a clean bowl, beat the remaining egg whites until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar until the meringue is thick and glossy.
8. Top the Cookies: Using a small spatula or piping bag, spread a thin layer of the meringue topping over each star cookie.
9. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the meringue is set but has not browned.
10. Cool and Serve: Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack. Enjoy the Zimtsterne with family and friends during the holiday season!

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Spritzgebäck (German Spritz Cookies)

Spritzgebäck, or German spritz cookies, are delightful, buttery treats that are often piped into beautiful shapes and enjoyed during the holiday season. These cookies have a rich, tender texture and can be decorated with chocolate, nuts, or sprinkles to enhance their festive appeal. Perfect for sharing, they are a staple in many German households during Christmas time.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, approximately 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Egg Yolks and Flavor: Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat well until fully combined.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Prepare the Dough: Once the dough is formed, it should be soft and pliable. If it seems too dry, you can add a teaspoon of milk to help moisten it.
6. Pipe the Cookies: Using a piping bag fitted with a star-shaped nozzle, pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheets in desired shapes, such as rosettes, S-shapes, or straight lines, leaving some space between each cookie.
7. Optional Decoration: If desired, brush the tops of the unbaked cookies lightly with milk and sprinkle them with your choice of sprinkles or chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
8. Bake the Cookies: Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are lightly golden. Avoid overbaking to keep the cookies tender.
9. Cool Down: Once baked, take the cookies out of the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. Then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Decorate with Chocolate (Optional): If you wish to add chocolate, melt some chocolate in a microwave or over a double boiler, and dip half of each cooled cookie into the chocolate. Allow the cookies to set on parchment paper before storing or serving.

Enjoy these delicious Spritzgebäck with family and friends, adding a touch of sweetness to your holiday celebrations!

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Stollen (Christmas Fruit Bread)

Stollen is a traditional German Christmas fruit bread that is rich, dense, and filled with dried fruits, nuts, and spices. Often dusted with powdered sugar, stollen is not only a festive treat but also a symbol of the holiday season. The dough is typically flavored with a hint of rum or brandy, giving it a delightful warmth that complements its fruity filling. It’s perfect for sharing with family and friends during holiday gatherings.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, warm the milk to about 110°F (45°C). Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the milk and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, salt, and ground cinnamon. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture, softened unsalted butter, and optional rum or brandy. Mix until a soft dough forms.
3. Incorporate Fruits and Nuts: Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. Gradually add in the mixed dried fruits and chopped nuts, kneading until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
4. First Rising: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Stollen: Once risen, punch down the dough to release any air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and shape it into an oval loaf. Then, fold the loaf slightly to create a distinct “hump” in the center, reminiscent of the traditional stollen shape.
6. Second Rising: Place the shaped loaf onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover it with the kitchen towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
7. Preheat the Oven: While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
8. Bake the Stollen: After the final rise, bake the stollen in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until it is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
9. Cool and Dust: Allow the stollen to cool on a wire rack. Once completely cool, dust generously with powdered sugar before serving. Enjoy the rich flavors throughout the holiday season!

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Butterplätzchen (Butter Cookies)

Butterplätzchen, or butter cookies, are a beloved German Christmas treat known for their rich, buttery flavor and crisp texture. Often cut into various shapes and decorated with colorful sprinkles or icing, these delightful cookies are perfect for holiday baking with family and friends. They can be enjoyed on their own or used to create beautiful holiday gift boxes filled with festive treats.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Add Eggs and Flavor: Add the egg yolks and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until well combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
4. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, flatten each portion into a disc, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 1-2 hours or until firm. This helps the dough maintain its shape while baking.
5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has chilled, remove one disc from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about ⅛ inch (3mm).
7. Cut Out Cookies: Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes from the rolled dough. Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each cookie.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid over-baking.
9. Cool the Cookies: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Decorate (Optional): Once the cookies are cooled, you can dust them with powdered sugar or decorate them with colorful sprinkles or icing, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Butterplätzchen with family and friends during the holiday season!

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Heidesand (Sandy Cookies)

Heidesand, known as sandy cookies, are a traditional German treat that boasts a rich, crumbly texture and buttery flavor. These delightful cookies are often made during the Christmas season and are characterized by their distinctive sandy appearance, which comes from incorporating cornstarch into the dough. Heidesand cookies are typically enjoyed with coffee or tea, making them a perfect addition to holiday gatherings or as gifts during the festive season.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, around 3-5 minutes.
2. Add Egg and Flavoring: Incorporate the egg yolk and vanilla extract into the butter-sugar mixture. Beat until everything is well combined.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cornstarch, and salt.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix; just blend until combined.
5. Shape the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions and shape each portion into a log about 1-2 inches in diameter. Wrap each log tightly in plastic wrap.
6. Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the wrapped logs for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This will help the cookies maintain their shape while baking.
7. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
8. Slice and Place Cookies: Once the dough is firm, remove the logs from the refrigerator. Unwrap and slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds. Arrange the slices on the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie.
9. Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges start to turn lightly golden. Make sure not to overbake, as they should remain soft.
10. Cool and Dust: Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust the cookies lightly with powdered sugar before serving or storing.

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Spitzbuben (Jam-Filled Cookies)

Spitzbuben, also known as jam-filled cookies, are a beloved German Christmas treat characterized by their delightful combination of buttery cookie dough and a sweet fruit jam filling. With their charming shapes, often cut into rounds with a small hole in the center, Spitzbuben are as visually appealing as they are delicious. They make a lovely addition to any holiday cookie platter and are perfect for sharing with family and friends during the festive season.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Egg Yolk and Flavoring: Add the egg yolk and vanilla extract to the butter-sugar mixture. Mix well until fully incorporated.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms. Be careful not to overmix; just blend until combined.
5. Chill the Dough: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This will make it easier to roll out later.
6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll Out the Dough: Once chilled, take the dough out of the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to about ¼ inch thick.
8. Cut Out Cookies: Use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes from the rolled dough. For half of the cookies, cut out a smaller shape in the center to create the tops, which will allow the jam to peek through. Place the cut cookies on the prepared baking sheets.
9. Fill with Jam: On each bottom cookie (the ones without a hole), place about ½ teaspoon of fruit jam in the center. Be careful not to overfill.
10. Top and Bake: Place the cut top cookies (the ones with holes) over the jam-filled ones. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Cool and Dust: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and let the cookies cool for a few minutes. Once cooled, dust the tops of the cookies with powdered sugar using a fine mesh sieve for an elegant finish.
12. Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy your freshly made Spitzbuben cookies with a cup of coffee or share them with loved ones during the holiday season!

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Dominosteine (Layered Spiced Cookies)

Dominosteine, or layered spiced cookies, are a traditional German Christmas treat that combines spiced honey cake, marzipan, and fruity jelly, all layered and covered in a glossy chocolate coating. These delightful confections offer a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that make them a festive favorite. They are perfect for sharing during the holiday season and can be enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Honey Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the honey, granulated sugar, and egg. Beat the mixture using an electric mixer until well blended.
2. Incorporate Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground almonds, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. Gradually add the dry mixture to the honey mixture, stirring until just combined.
3. Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking dish (about 9×13 inches) with parchment paper. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely.
4. Layer with Marzipan and Jelly: Once the cake is cool, remove it from the baking dish and slice it into even rectangles (about 2×3 inches). Roll out the marzipan on a lightly dusted surface to lightly cover the cake rectangles, ensuring the marzipan is thin. Spread a thin layer of fruit jelly on top of the marzipan, smoothing it out carefully.
5. Prepare the Chocolate Coating: In a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler, melt the dark chocolate until smooth. Be cautious not to overheat it; stir frequently to maintain a glossy texture.
6. Dip the Cookies: Using a fork, dip each layered rectangle into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off before placing them on a wire rack lined with parchment paper.
7. Set the Coating: Allow the chocolate to set completely at room temperature or in the refrigerator for a quicker result. Once fully hardened, the Dominosteine are ready to be served.
8. Enjoy: Store the layered cookies in an airtight container. They can be enjoyed immediately or allowed to mellow for a few days, as the flavors develop further.

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Nussecken (Nut Corners)

Nussecken, or nut corners, are a beloved German Christmas pastry featuring a sweet shortcrust base topped with a rich, nutty filling and drizzled with chocolate. These delightful bars, traditionally made with nuts such as almonds or hazelnuts, are cut into triangular shapes, resembling corners that are perfect for sharing during the festive season.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and baking powder. Add the unsalted butter, vanilla extract, and egg yolks. Using your hands or a pastry cutter, mix until the ingredients form a smooth dough. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Oven: While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking pan (approximately 9×13 inches) with parchment paper.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit the prepared baking pan. Carefully transfer the rolled dough into the pan and press it down evenly. Prick the surface with a fork to prevent bubbling.
4. Prepare the Nut Topping: In a saucepan, combine the ground nuts, light brown sugar, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture is well combined and slightly bubbling. Remove from heat and let it cool for a moment.
5. Spread the Nut Mixture: Pour the nut mixture over the rolled-out dough in the baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
6. Bake the Nussecken: Place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Cut into Triangles: Once fully cooled, use a sharp knife to cut the pastry into squares or triangles (corners) for serving.
8. Drizzle with Chocolate: Melt the dark chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl or over a double boiler until smooth. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the cut pieces of Nussecken for an elegant touch.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Once the chocolate has set, your Nussecken are ready to be enjoyed! These nut corners make a delightful addition to any holiday cookie platter.

Schokoladenkipferl (Chocolate Crescents)

Schokoladenkipferl, or chocolate crescents, are a traditional German Christmas cookie characterized by their buttery texture and deliciously rich chocolate flavor. These crescent-shaped pastries, often dusted with powdered sugar, are perfect for indulging during the holiday season or sharing with friends and family. Their melt-in-your-mouth consistency makes them a favorite among festive treats.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.
3. Add Chocolate and Nuts: Fold in the chopped chocolate and chopped nuts (if using) to the dough. The mixture will be soft and slightly sticky.
4. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions and shape each portion into a log. Wrap each log in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or until firm.
5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Shape the Cookies: Once the dough is chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Slice each log into ½-inch thick pieces. Roll each piece into a crescent shape, bending the dough slightly to form the familiar shape.
7. Bake the Crescents: Place the shaped cookies onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are set but the centers are still soft. Remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes.
8. Dust with Powdered Sugar: While the cookies are still warm, dust them generously with powdered sugar. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooled, serve the Schokoladenkipferl as a delightful holiday treat, or store them in an airtight container to keep fresh.

Pfeffernüsse (Pepper Nuts)

Pfeffernüsse, or pepper nuts, are a traditional German spiced cookie that is often enjoyed during the holiday season. These small, round cookies boast a delightful mix of warm spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, combined with a hint of black pepper that gives them a unique flavor. Often coated in powdered sugar, Pfeffernüsse are perfect for sharing with friends and family during festive gatherings.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Then, mix in the honey and the egg until everything is well combined.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, black pepper, baking powder, and cocoa powder. Stir well to guarantee the spices are evenly distributed.
3. Combine Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the butter and sugar mixture, stirring until the dough comes together. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a small amount of additional flour until it reaches a manageable consistency.
4. Chill the Dough: Once mixed, form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This will make the dough easier to handle.
5. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Shape the Cookies: After the dough has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Take small portions of dough and roll them into 1-inch balls. Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart as they will spread slightly during baking.
7. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are set and the edges are lightly golden. Remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes on the baking sheet.
8. Coat with Powdered Sugar: While still warm, roll the cookies in powdered sugar to coat them thoroughly. This adds sweetness and texture to the finished cookies.
9. Cool Completely: Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Once completely cool, they can be stored in an airtight container for several days.
10. Serve and Enjoy: Enjoy these flavorful Pfeffernüsse cookies alongside a warm cup of tea or coffee during the festive season!

Walnussplätzchen (Walnut Cookies)

Walnussplätzchen, or walnut cookies, are a beloved treat in Germany, particularly during the Christmas season. These delightful cookies are rich, buttery, and filled with finely chopped walnuts, offering a satisfying crunch and a delightful nutty flavor. They are often dusted with powdered sugar, making them an elegant addition to any holiday cookie platter.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Butter: In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugar, mixing until fully incorporated.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, ground walnuts, baking powder, and salt to combine.
4. Combine and Form Dough: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until a dough forms. Ascertain that the ingredients are well combined but do not overmix.
5. Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for at least 1 hour. Chilling the dough helps firm it up, making it easier to handle.
6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Shape the Cookies: Once the dough is chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Take small portions of dough and roll them into balls, approximately 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 2 inches apart.
8. Flatten the Cookies: Use the back of a fork or your fingers to gently flatten each cookie ball slightly.
9. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. The centers may look slightly soft, but they will continue to set as they cool.
10. Cool and Dust: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and allow them to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust them lightly with powdered sugar for a finishing touch.

Enjoy your delicious Walnussplätzchen during the festive season or share them with loved ones!

Marzipanplätzchen (Marzipan Cookies)

Marzipanplätzchen, or marzipan cookies, are a deliciously sweet treat popular in Germany during the Christmas season. Made from almond paste and often decorated with festive toppings, these cookies possess a unique texture and flavor that make them a charming addition to holiday cookie trays. Like little bites of sweet nostalgia, marzipan cookies are perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marzipan: In a mixing bowl, crumble the marzipan and combine it with the unsalted butter. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and almond extract until fully incorporated and the mixture is fluffy.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to verify they are well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Shape the Dough: Once mixed, cover the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps firm up the dough and makes it easier to handle.
6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. Form the Cookies: After chilling the dough, take small portions and roll them into balls about 1 inch in diameter. Place each ball on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
8. Brush with Egg Wash: Lightly brush the top of each cookie with the beaten egg for a shiny finish.
9. Top with Almonds: If desired, sprinkle chopped almonds on top of each cookie for added texture and flavor.
10. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Cool Down: Once baked, remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Your marzipan cookies are now ready to be enjoyed! Store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Schwarz-Weiß-Gebäck (Black and White Cookies)

Schwarz-Weiß-Gebäck, or Black and White Cookies, are a delightful German treat that features a unique combination of light and dark dough, creating a visually stunning and deliciously contrasting cookie. The soft, chewy texture of these cookies pairs perfectly with the sweet glazes that adorn their tops, making them a wonderful addition to any holiday cookie platter or a charming gift for loved ones during the festive season.

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cocoa powder, and baking powder. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer, until the mixture is light and fluffy.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and combine until fully incorporated.
5. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the dough.
6. Divide Dough: Split the dough in half. Leave one half as is for the white cookies. For the other half, mix in additional cocoa powder if desired to intensify the color.
7. Shape the Cookies: Take spoonfuls of the dough from both the white and dark portions and place them onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving space between each cookie. Use the back of a spoon to flatten them slightly.
8. Bake the Cookies: Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Once done, remove from the oven and let cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, mix the powdered sugar with water until smooth. Divide this glaze into two bowls. Leave one bowl white and melt the semisweet chocolate in the microwave or over a double boiler for the other.
10. Glaze the Cookies: Once the cookies are fully cooled, dip one side of each cookie into the white glaze and the other side into the chocolate glaze, allowing the excess to drip off.
11. Set the Glaze: Place the glazed cookies on a wire rack or parchment paper to allow the glaze to set properly before serving.
12. Serve and Enjoy: Once the glaze has dried, the Schwarz-Weiß-Gebäck are ready to be enjoyed! Share them with family and friends, or store them in an airtight container for up to a week.