Are you ready to indulge in a sweet treat that’s steeped in tradition and culture? Look no further than Germany’s rich collection of cookies, each with its own unique flavor profile and texture. From crispy and crunchy to chewy and soft, these treats are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 classic German cookie recipes that you won’t want to miss.
From the spicy kick of Pfeffernüsse (Peppernut Spice Cookies) to the buttery goodness of Vanillekipferl (Vanilla Crescent Cookies), each recipe has its own special charm. And with a focus on traditional ingredients like almonds, hazelnuts, and chocolate, you’ll be transported to the heart of Germany without ever leaving your kitchen.
In the following pages, we’ll delve into the world of German cookies, highlighting the most beloved recipes that have been passed down through generations. Whether you’re a cookie aficionado or just looking for a new treat to try, these classic German cookie recipes are sure to delight.
Vanillekipferl (Vanilla Crescent Cookies)
These classic German cookies are a staple at holiday gatherings and special occasions. With their delicate vanilla flavor and crispy, buttery texture, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
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, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture 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 crescent shapes and place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Star Cookies)
These delicate, sweet, and spicy cookies are a classic German treat, perfect for snacking or serving at holiday gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these flavorful stars in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
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 cinnamon.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Use a cookie cutter or a star-shaped pastry tip to cut out shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spritzgebäck (German Spritz Cookies)
Spritzgebäck are a beloved traditional German cookie that combines the perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and flavor. With this simple recipe, you can bring a taste of Germany into your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 2 3/4 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour and baking powder, mixing until just combined.
5. Use a cookie press or a piping bag to shape the dough into desired shapes (e.g., stars, hearts).
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lebkuchen (German Gingerbread Cookies)
A classic German treat, Lebkuchen (Gingerbread Cookies) are soft, spicy, and sweet, perfect for the holiday season or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 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, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and eggs until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 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 firm to the touch.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Springerle (Anise-Flavored Pressed Cookies)
Springerle cookies are a classic German treat that has been delighting taste buds for centuries. These anise-flavored pressed cookies have a unique texture and flavor profile, making them a perfect addition to any holiday cookie platter.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup anise extract (or 1-2 teaspoons ground anise)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
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, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add anise extract (or ground anise) and mix until combined.
4. Add softened butter and mix until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bethmännchen (Marzipan Almond Cookies)
These traditional German cookies are a delightful combination of marzipan, almonds, and powdered sugar. A perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar
– 1/4 cup marzipan (almond paste)
– 1/4 cup finely chopped almonds
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg white
– Powdered 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 and confectioner’s sugar.
3. Add marzipan, almonds, baking powder, and salt. Mix until combined.
4. Beat in egg white until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
8. Dust with powdered sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spekulatius (Spiced Speculoos Cookies)
Discover the rich flavors of the Netherlands with these traditional Spekulatius cookies, spiced with cinnamon and ginger for a warm and comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon molasses
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg and molasses.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on 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
Schokoküsse (Chocolate-Covered Marshmallow Cookies)
These soft and chewy marshmallow cookies are a classic German treat, elevated by a rich chocolate coating. Perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioner’s sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) marshmallow creme
– 1 cup (200g) semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioner’s sugar, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and marshmallow creme until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches (5 cm) apart.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Dip cooled cookies into melted chocolate, using a fork to coat evenly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baiser (German Meringue Cookies)
These classic German cookies are a staple of any festive gathering. With their light-as-air texture and sweet, buttery flavor, they’re sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cream of tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 200°F (90°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together egg whites, sugar, cream of tartar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
3. Add flour, baking soda, and melted butter to the egg mixture; fold gently until just combined.
4. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each cookie.
5. Bake for 1 1/2 hours or until lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Haselnussmakronen (Hazelnut Macaroons)
Experience the rich flavor of hazelnuts in these delicate and chewy macaroon treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (120g) ground hazelnuts
– 1/2 cup (60g) confectioner’s sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ground hazelnuts and confectioner’s sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, beat egg whites and cream of tartar until stiff peaks form.
4. Gradually add the hazelnut mixture to the egg whites, gently folding until no streaks remain.
5. Spoon small mounds onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each macaroon.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until firm and lightly golden.
7. Allow macaroons to cool completely on the baking sheet before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Yield: Approximately 20-24 macaroons
Pfeffernüsse (Peppernut Spice Cookies)
These classic German cookies have been a holiday season staple for centuries. With their sweet and spicy flavor, they’re the perfect treat to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until combined.
5. Stir in cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, and pepper.
6. Roll dough into balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Biberle (Honey-Spiced Cookies)
A classic German cookie recipe that combines the warmth of honey and spices with a delicate crumb, perfect for snacking or gifting.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
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 soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and honey until smooth. Beat in egg until well combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Stir in cinnamon and cardamom.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies 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
Kokosmakronen (Coconut Macaroons)
These chewy treats are a staple of Scandinavian baking tradition. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create these sweet and satisfying cookies that are perfect for snacking or as a dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 3 large egg whites
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, beat the egg whites until frothy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
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 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each cookie.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Nussecken (Nut Corners with Chocolate Glaze)
These classic German cookies, Nussecken, are a staple of Christmas markets and bakeries. With their crispy edges, chewy centers, and rich chocolate glaze, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (60g) brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) chopped hazelnuts or walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
– Chocolate Glaze:
+ 1 cup (200g) semisweet chocolate chips
+ 2 tablespoons heavy cream
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. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until creamy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture and chopped nuts until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness. Cut into triangles or squares.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Allow cookies to cool completely before glazing with melted chocolate and heavy cream.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mandelschnitten (Almond Slices)
These delicate almond slices are a classic German cookie that’s perfect for dunking in tea or coffee, or enjoying on their own. Made with ground almonds, confectioner’s sugar, and just the right amount of moisture, Mandelschnitten are a sweet treat that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) ground almonds
– 1 cup (200g) confectioner’s sugar
– 1 tablespoon (15g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg white
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almonds, confectioner’s sugar, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture forms a crumbly dough.
4. Beat in the egg white and vanilla extract until well combined.
5. Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness.
6. Cut into long, thin strips (about 1 inch / 2.5cm wide).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5cm) space between each slice.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Printen (Aachener Spiced Cookies)
These traditional German cookies from Aachen are a classic treat, perfect for dunking in hot chocolate or tea. With their unique blend of spices and sweet notes, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 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, baking powder, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Zuckerbrötchen (Sugar Roll Cookies)
Zuckerbrötchen, or sugar roll cookies, are a beloved German cookie that combines the sweetness of sugar with the simplicity of a rolled dough. These tender and crumbly treats are perfect for snacking or serving at parties.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., strips or squares).
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Schneeballen (Snowball Shortbread Cookies)
These tender, buttery cookies are a traditional German treat that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour, salt, and baking powder; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the world of classic German cookies! This collection of 18 recipes features an array of sweet and savory treats that are sure to delight. From Vanilla Crescent Cookies to Spiced Speculoos Cookies, each recipe has its own unique charm. Try your hand at Springerle, Anise-Flavored Pressed Cookies with a rich history, or Baiser, German Meringue Cookies that melt in your mouth. With flavors ranging from hazelnut and coconut to chocolate and spices, there’s something for everyone in this collection of classic German cookie recipes.
