If there’s one thing that can instantly bring the warmth and coziness of the holiday season into your home, it’s the delightful aroma of freshly baked gingerbread cookies. And when it comes to Christmas baking traditions, the Czech Republic has a recipe that stands out for its rich flavors and festive flair – Perníčky Gingerbread Cookies.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup molasses
– 1 large egg
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
2. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the molasses and egg to the butter-sugar mixture, and mix until smooth and well incorporated.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
5. Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrap each portion in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the dough to firm up.
6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes for your gingerbread cookies.
8. Place the cut-out cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between them.
9. Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the edges are just beginning to darken. Keep a close eye on them as they can burn quickly.
10. Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
11. Decorate your Perníčky Gingerbread Cookies with icing, sprinkles, or any other festive toppings of your choice. Get creative and make them as colorful and playful as you like!
These Czech Christmas gingerbread cookies are not only delicious but also a joy to make with your loved ones. Keep a batch handy for unexpected guests or package them up as thoughtful gifts during the holiday season. Enjoy the magical spirit of Christmas baking with these Perníčky Gingerbread Cookies!
