Honiglebkuchen Honey Gingerbread

In Austria, the Christmas season is a magical time filled with cozy traditions and delightful treats. One beloved holiday recipe that captures the essence of this festive period is Honiglebkuchen, also known as Honey Gingerbread. These aromatic and tender cookies are a staple on Christmas tables, offering a perfect blend of warm spices and sweet honey.

**Honiglebkuchen Honey Gingerbread**

**Ingredients:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the honey, egg, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture. Mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out gingerbread shapes.
7. Place the cutouts on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake as the cookies will continue to firm up as they cool.
9. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once cooled, you can decorate the gingerbread cookies with icing, sprinkles, or enjoy them plain.

Honiglebkuchen Honey Gingerbread is a delightful treat that embodies the warmth and sweetness of the holiday season. These spiced cookies are perfect for sharing with loved ones or as thoughtful gifts for friends and neighbors. Enjoy the process of baking these traditional Austrian treats, and let the aroma of ginger and honey fill your home with festive cheer.