Piernik Staropolski, or Old Polish Gingerbread, is a delightful holiday treat rich in spices and history. This aromatic dessert has been a staple on Polish Christmas tables for generations, bringing warmth and sweetness to festive gatherings. The combination of fragrant spices, honey, and dark molasses gives this gingerbread its distinctive flavor and irresistible aroma. Whether you’re following a cherished family tradition or looking to add a touch of European charm to your holiday baking repertoire, Piernik Staropolski is sure to become a cherished favorite. Let’s dive into this time-honored recipe and whisk up some magic in the kitchen!
**Piernik Staropolski Old Polish Gingerbread**
*Ingredients:*
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup honey
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup dark molasses
– Zest of one orange
– Zest of one lemon
– 1 large egg
*Instructions:*
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×13-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, allspice, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the honey, sugar, butter, and molasses. Heat the mixture, stirring constantly, until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved. Do not let it boil.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the orange zest, lemon zest, and egg until smooth.
5. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until a sticky dough forms.
6. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the gingerbread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then use the parchment paper overhang to lift it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Once cooled, cut the gingerbread into squares or rectangles and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Enjoy the rich flavors and festive aroma of Piernik Staropolski, a classic Polish Christmas treat that embodies the spirit of the season. Whether shared with loved ones or enjoyed as a special indulgence, this Old Polish Gingerbread is sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday celebrations. Embrace tradition and create lasting memories with every blissful bite. Happy baking!
