The holiday season has arrived, and with it, the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting from the oven. In Germany, Christmas cookies are a beloved tradition that brings families together to share in the joy and warmth of the season. With a rich history dating back centuries, German Christmas cookies have evolved into an art form, with intricate designs and flavors that are both familiar and unique.
From classic Lebkuchen to festive Springerle, each region in Germany has its own specialty cookie recipe that is passed down from generation to generation. In this article, we’ll take a trip around the country to discover 20 delicious German Christmas cookie recipes that you can make at home to share with your loved ones.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a sweet treat to enjoy during the holiday season, these traditional German Christmas cookies are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face.
Vanillekipferl (Vanilla Crescent Cookies)
These classic German cookies are a delight to make and enjoy. With their crispy edges and soft centers, they’re perfect for dunking in your favorite hot beverage or serving as a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars)
Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars) are a classic German cookie that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of sugar and honey. Perfect for dunking in tea or coffee, these soft and chewy stars are a delightful treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and cinnamon.
3. Add softened butter, honey, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into star shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife.
6. Place stars on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lebkuchen (German Gingerbread Cookies)
Experience the warmth of Germany’s traditional holiday cookie with this simple recipe for Lebkuchen, a soft and spicy gingerbread treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and spices.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and honey until smooth. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until firm to the touch. Let cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spritzgebäck (German Spritz Cookies)
These classic German cookies are a staple at holiday gatherings and special occasions. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a batch of tender, buttery treats that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– Spritz cookie press or a pastry bag fitted with a star tip
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Press or pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet in desired shapes.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spekulatius (Spiced Speculoos Cookies)
Experience the classic Dutch tradition of Spekulatius cookies, spiced with a blend of aromatic ingredients and baked to perfection. These crispy treats are perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp cardamom powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In another bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Stir in cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cardamom powder.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bethmännchen (Marzipan Cookies)
Bethmännchen are a traditional German cookie that combines the sweetness of marzipan with the crunch of nuts. These delicate treats are perfect for special occasions or as a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) marzipan
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioner’s sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) chopped almonds
– 1 large egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon water
– Confectioner’s sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine marzipan, confectioner’s sugar, and salt. Mix until smooth.
3. Add chopped almonds, egg, and water. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5cm) space between cookies.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Springerle (Anise-Flavored Pressed Cookies)
Traditional Springerle cookies are a German classic, characterized by their delicate anise flavor and intricate designs created through the pressing process. With this recipe, you’ll be able to create these delightful treats in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon anise extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until smooth. Add anise extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Use a Springerle mold or a glass to create patterns on the dough.
7. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pfeffernüsse (Peppernut Cookies)
Pfeffernüsse, also known as peppernuts, are a traditional German cookie that’s perfect for the holiday season. These sweet and spicy treats have been a staple in German baking for centuries.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Beat in egg, honey, and black pepper.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Schokoladenplätzchen (Chocolate Cookies)
These classic German cookies are a staple of any Christmas cookie exchange or special treat. With their crumbly exterior and gooey chocolate center, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Kokosmakronen (Coconut Macaroons)
A classic Scandinavian treat, Kokosmakronen (Coconut Macaroons) are chewy, sweet, and irresistibly coconutty. This recipe yields a batch of tender and flavorful macaroons that are perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup egg whites (about 4 large eggs)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until frothy. Add vanilla extract and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the egg mixture into the coconut mixture until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each macaroon.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow macaroons to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Nussecken (Nut Corners)
Nussecken are a classic German cookie that combines the simplicity of a shortbread with the richness of nuts and chocolate. This recipe is a traditional take on this beloved treat, perfect for snacking or serving at your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts or walnuts
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 ounce high-quality dark chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms. Fold in chopped nuts.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares, about 2 inches per side.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Melt chocolate chips and drizzle over cooled cookies.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Baisergebäck (Meringue Cookies)
These crispy, chewy meringue cookies are a classic Swiss treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving at parties. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these sweet delights in no time!
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the egg whites and cream of tartar until frothy.
3. Gradually add the sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
4. Add the softened butter and mix until combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 1 1/2 hours, or until the cookies are dry and crisp.
7. Allow to cool completely on a wire rack. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Elisenlebkuchen (Soft Almond Lebkuchen)
These delicate cookies are a classic German treat, perfect for the holiday season. With their soft texture and subtle almond flavor, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon orange liqueur (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, ground almonds, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and egg until smooth. Add orange liqueur, if using.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Hildabrötchen (Hilda’s Little Bread Cookies)
These classic German cookies are a staple at any holiday gathering or everyday treat. Crisp on the outside and chewy on the inside, they’re perfect for dunking in your favorite beverage.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and brown sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Printen (Aachener Printen Cookies)
These crispy and flavorful cookies are a classic German treat, originating from the city of Aachen. With their unique blend of spices and sweet printen liquor, they’re perfect for dunking in hot chocolate or enjoying on their own.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup printen liquor (or substitute with a combination of orange and cinnamon extracts)
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the dough comes together.
4. Stir in printen liquor (or extracts) and egg. Mix well.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dominosteine (Layered Christmas Cookies)
Start your holiday baking with this classic German cookie recipe, featuring layers of buttery dough, jam, and chocolate. Perfect for a festive treat or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup apricot or raspberry jam
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add salt and mix well.
3. Gradually add flour, mixing until just combined.
4. Divide dough into 6-8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a thin sheet (about 1/16 inch thick).
5. Place a sheet of dough on the prepared baking sheet. Spread with jam, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Top with another sheet of dough and repeat the process until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of dough on top.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mandelschnitten (Almond Slices)
A classic German dessert, Mandelschnitten are delicate, crispy almond cookies that are perfect for a quick snack or as a sweet treat to accompany your favorite tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup ground almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and egg until smooth. Add ground almonds and almond extract (if using); mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture; mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch wide).
6. Place the strips onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Zuckergebäck (Sugar Cookies)
These sweet treats are a staple of German baking, perfect for snacking or as a festive dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Colored sprinkles or powdered sugar for decorating (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth.
6. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Marzipankartoffeln (Marzipan Potatoes)
This traditional German recipe combines tender potatoes with a sweet marzipan filling, creating a unique and delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes
– 1 cup marzipan (almond-based)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them with a paper towel.
3. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and let cool.
4. Cut the cooled potatoes in half lengthwise and hollow out the centers, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato on each side.
5. In a small bowl, combine the marzipan and butter until smooth.
6. Stuff each potato with the marzipan mixture, dividing it evenly among the four potatoes.
7. Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are warm and the marzipan is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Anisplätzchen (Anise Cookies)
Anisplätzchen are classic German cookies that combine the warmth of anise with the sweetness of sugar and spices. These soft, chewy treats are a staple at Christmas markets and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon anise extract
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, granulated sugar, anise extract, and beaten egg. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the sweet and festive spirit of German Christmas cookies! This collection of 20 traditional recipes will transport you to the heart of Germany during the holiday season. From classic Lebkuchen and Spritzgebäck to unique treats like Vanillekipferl and Anisplätzchen, these mouthwatering cookies are sure to become a new family tradition. With a range of flavors and textures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So why not try your hand at making some of these delicious German Christmas cookies this year?
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