Russian Christmas baking is filled with tradition and flavor, making it a delightful experience to explore new recipes. This holiday season, why not try your hand at baking Zavarny Pryaniki Soft Honey Cookies? These soft and fragrant cookies are a beloved Russian treat, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying a cozy evening at home by the fireplace.
**Zavarny Pryaniki Soft Honey Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup of honey
– 1 cup of sugar
– 1 cup of unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon of baking soda
– 2 eggs
– 4 cups of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, and butter over medium heat. Stir the mixture constantly until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. In a small bowl, dissolve the baking soda in 2 teaspoons of warm water and add it to the honey mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs. Slowly pour the honey mixture into the eggs while whisking continuously to prevent the eggs from scrambling.
4. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms. Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes or simply form small balls and flatten them slightly with your palm.
7. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
8. 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.
9. Dust the cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
These Zavarny Pryaniki Soft Honey Cookies are a delightful addition to your Christmas baking repertoire. Their warm spices and tender texture make them a perfect treat to enjoy with a cup of tea or coffee during the holiday season. Share these cookies with your loved ones or package them up as thoughtful gifts for neighbors and friends. Enjoy the process of baking these traditional Russian cookies and make unforgettable memories in the kitchen with your loved ones!
