Medové Perníčky Honey Gingerbread Cookies

Introducing a festive and delightful Christmas baking tradition from the heart of the Czech Republic – Medové Perníčky, also known as Honey Gingerbread Cookies. These aromatic treats are a must-have during the holiday season, with their warm blend of honey, spices, and rich flavors. Perfect for sharing with loved ones or gifting to friends, these cookies are sure to fill your home with the cozy scents of the season.

Medové Perníčky (Honey Gingerbread Cookies)

Ingredients:
– 1 cup honey
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– Powdered sugar for dusting

Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the honey, sugar, and butter over low heat. Stir the mixture until the sugar dissolves and the butter melts, creating a smooth liquid. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs until light and fluffy. Slowly pour in the honey mixture, stirring constantly to incorporate the ingredients smoothly.
3. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
4. Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrap them in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to firm up.
5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to create festive shapes like stars, hearts, or gingerbread people.
7. Place the cut-out cookies on the baking sheets, spacing them about an inch apart, and bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden.
8. Remove from the oven and transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Repeat the rolling, cutting, and baking process with the remaining dough until all cookies are baked.
10. Once the cookies are cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for a snowy finish, adding a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.

These Medové Perníčky Honey Gingerbread Cookies are a delightful treat to enjoy with a cup of hot cocoa or to share with guests during holiday gatherings. The combination of honey and spices creates a perfect balance of flavors that will surely evoke warm memories of festive seasons past. Make a batch of these aromatic cookies, and let the sweet aroma of Christmas fill your home with joy and cheer.