Get ready to indulge in a sweet and delicious journey through Germany with these mouth-watering cookie recipes! Known for their rich history, cultural heritage, and love for baking, Germans have perfected the art of creating scrumptious cookies that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. From classic vanilla crescents to decadent chocolate spice cookies, we’ve curated 18 authentic German cookie recipes that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Bavaria.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary tour through Germany’s cookie-making traditions, highlighting the most popular and beloved recipes passed down from generation to generation. From traditional Lebkuchen cookies to modern twists on classic flavors, each recipe has been carefully selected to showcase the best of German baking. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious foodie, these recipes are sure to delight and inspire your own baking adventures.
So, grab your apron and get ready to bake like a true German with our 18 delicious cookie recipes!
Traditional German Lebkuchen Cookies
Lebkuchen cookies are a classic German treat that’s perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to warm up with a sweet and spicy cookie. This recipe uses simple ingredients and easy steps to create soft, chewy cookies with a lovely cinnamon flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 large eggs
– Raisins or chopped nuts (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, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in honey and eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. If desired, stir in raisins or chopped nuts.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Classic German Vanillekipferl (Vanilla Crescents)
These buttery, sweet, and crumbly crescent-shaped cookies are a staple of German baking tradition. With just the right balance of vanilla and powdered sugar, they’re perfect for a tea party or as a sweet treat any time of day.
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 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into crescent shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden around edges.
8. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Authentic German Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars)
Authentic German Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars) Recipe
As the holiday season approaches, traditional German treats like Zimtsterne are a staple at many Christmas markets and family gatherings. These sweet, spiced cookies are perfect for dunking in hot chocolate or coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 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. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves; whisk until combined.
4. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and milk.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into star shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
10. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
German Butter Cookies (Butterplätzchen)
A classic German cookie recipe that yields soft, buttery treats with a delicate flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat 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 vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until just combined.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden around edges.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
German Springerle Cookies with Anise
A classic German cookie, these Springerle cookies are infused with the warm, sweet flavor of anise and a touch of lemon zest.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon anise extract
– 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
– 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, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and anise extract until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating 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. 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.
8. 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
German Chocolate Spice Cookies (Schokoladenplätzchen)
Experience the rich flavors of Germany with these moist and aromatic cookies, infused with the warmth of chocolate and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 cup 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, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom.
6. Fold in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
German Almond Cookies (Mandelhörnchen)
These crunchy on the outside and chewy on the inside cookies are a classic German treat, perfect for dunking in coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup sliced almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in sliced almonds and salt.
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 a glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
8. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly browned.
10. Let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
German Honey Cookies (Honigkuchen)
German Honey Cookies (Honigkuchen): A sweet treat that’s a staple of German baking. These moist and flavorful cookies are perfect for any occasion, from Christmas markets to everyday snacking.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, and baking powder in a medium bowl.
3. In a large bowl, cream together honey, butter, egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
German Linzer Cookies with Raspberry Jam
Experience the classic combination of crumbly cookies and sweet jam with this traditional German recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons raspberry jam
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the 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. Add softened butter and granulated sugar; mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into squares or use a cookie cutter for shapes. Place on prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are golden brown.
7. Allow cookies to cool before spreading with raspberry jam.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious German Linzer Cookies with Raspberry Jam!
German Hazelnut Cookies (Haselnussmakronen)
These buttery cookies are a classic German treat, flavored with the rich and nutty goodness of hazelnuts. With their crunchy edges and chewy centers, they’re perfect for dunking in hot chocolate or coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
– 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, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add flour, beating until just combined.
4. Stir in chopped hazelnuts.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
German Pfeffernüsse Spiced Cookies
These traditional German cookies are a staple of Christmas markets and a delicious treat any time of the year. With their unique blend of spices, these soft and chewy cookies are sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– Water, as needed
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, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and egg until smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
German Shortbread Cookies (Buttergebäck)
A classic German cookie recipe that’s buttery, crumbly, and utterly delicious. These cookies are perfect for a quick snack or as a sweet treat to accompany your favorite cup of coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add the softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
5. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden around the edges.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
German Marzipan Cookies (Marzipankekse)
German Marzipan Cookies (Marzipankekse) – A classic German treat that combines the sweetness of marzipan with the crunch of a cookie.
Ingredients:
- 250g all-purpose flour
- 100g confectioner’s sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup marzipan, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioner’s sugar.
- Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
- Add salt, marzipan, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
- Knead the dough for about 5 minutes, until smooth and pliable.
- Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness.
- Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
- Place on baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each cookie.
- Bake in preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
German Coconut Macaroons (Kokosmakronen)
German Coconut Macaroons (Kokosmakronen) – A sweet treat that combines the classic coconut macaroon with a hint of German flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened condensed milk
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg white, beaten until frothy
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– Confectioner’s sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine coconut, confectioner’s sugar, and unsweetened condensed milk. Stir until well combined.
3. Add vanilla extract and salt; stir until smooth.
4. Beat egg white and granulated sugar together until frothy. Fold into the coconut mixture until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown on the bottom.
7. Allow to cool completely before dusting with confectioner’s sugar (if desired).
Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
German Jam-Filled Thumbprint Cookies
These classic German cookies are a staple at Christmas markets and cookie exchanges. With their crumbly edges, chewy centers, and sweet jam filling, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup jam or preserves (such as strawberry or raspberry)
– 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, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, beating until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Use a thumb or a cookie cutter to create circles of dough. Place a spoonful of jam in the center of each circle.
7. Fold the dough over the jam to form a ball, and seal the edges by pressing with your fingers or a fork.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
9. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
German Gingerbread Cookies (Honiglebkuchen)
These sweet and spicy cookies are a traditional German treat, perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to indulge in a warm, comforting cookie. With the combination of honey, spices, and dark molasses, these cookies will transport your taste buds to the heart of Germany.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup dark molasses
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
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, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.
3. In a large bowl, cream together honey, molasses, butter, brown sugar, and egg until smooth.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix 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 the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
German Walnut Cookies (Nussplätzchen)
German Walnut Cookies (Nussplätzchen)
These classic German cookies are a delightful combination of crunchy and chewy, with the rich flavor of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until crumbly.
4. Stir in chopped walnuts and egg.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Yield: About 24 cookies
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
German Rum Balls (Rumkugeln)
These chewy rum-infused treats are a staple during the German holiday season, especially around Christmas. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can create these delightful morsels to share with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar
– 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans or walnuts
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (or substitute with a sweet liqueur)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine oats, confectioner’s sugar, and chopped nuts.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together butter, rum, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
5. Use a small cookie scoop or your hands to shape into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for another 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: None needed! These rum balls are best served chilled, so keep them refrigerated until serving.
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors and traditions of Germany with these 18 authentic cookie recipes. From classic Lebkuchen to decadent Schokoladenplätzchen, each treat is a taste of German heritage. Try making traditional favorites like Vanillekipferl or Zimtsterne, or venture into new territories with Butterplätzchen or Hazelnussmakronen. Whether you’re a cookie connoisseur or just looking to try something new, this collection has something for everyone. So go ahead, get baking, and experience the joy of German cookie-making!
Leave a Reply