A cozy kitchen filled with the warm aromas of holiday spices and sweet treats is an essential part of the festive season. German Christmas baking is renowned for its rich flavors and centuries-old traditions. Today, we bring you a classic recipe that will transport you to the heart of a German Christmas market – Elisenlebkuchen, or Elisen Gingerbread. These soft and chewy gingerbread cookies are a staple during the holiday season, packed with nuts, candied fruits, and a touch of holiday cheer. Let’s dive into the magic of these traditional treats!
**Elisenlebkuchen (Elisen Gingerbread)**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 cup ground almonds
– 1 cup ground hazelnuts
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Zest of 1 orange
– 1/4 cup candied orange peel, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup candied lemon peel, finely chopped
– 3 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Oblaten (thin baking wafers), optional
– 1 cup dark chocolate, for glazing
– Whole almonds or walnuts, for decoration
**Instructions:**
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds, ground hazelnuts, powdered sugar, ground cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, lemon zest, orange zest, candied orange peel, and candied lemon peel. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly blended.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and honey until fully combined. Slowly pour the egg mixture into the dry ingredients while stirring continuously. Mix until you have a thick and sticky dough.
3. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. If using, place the Oblaten on the baking sheet.
4. With damp hands, shape the dough into small rounds, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place each round on an Oblate or directly on the parchment paper. Press a whole almond or walnut into the center of each round for decoration.
5. Bake the Elisenlebkuchen in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
6. Once the cookies have cooled, melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water or in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Dip each cookie halfway into the chocolate, allowing any excess to drip off, and place them back on the parchment paper.
7. Before the chocolate sets, you can decorate the tops with additional chopped nuts or a drizzle of melted white chocolate for an extra festive touch.
8. Let the Elisenlebkuchen sit until the chocolate hardens. Store in an airtight container at room temperature, where they will develop more flavor over time. Enjoy these delicacies with a cup of hot cocoa or mulled wine for a true taste of the holidays!
Embrace the spirit of the season with these delightful Elisen Gingerbread cookies. The combination of fragrant spices, rich nuts, and decadent chocolate will make them a favorite at your holiday gatherings. These traditional treats are not just delicious – they are a labor of love that brings warmth and joy to your home. Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a whimsical snow-like touch, and share these homemade goodies with your loved ones. Happy baking and happy holidays from our kitchen to yours!
