Experience the warm and comforting flavors of Christmas with a delightful Polish baking tradition – Pierniczki Cytrynowe, or Lemon Gingerbread Cookies. These tender cookies are a lovely blend of zesty lemon and aromatic gingerbread spices, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season. Let’s dive into this easy-to-follow recipe to create delicious cookies that will surely become a family favorite.
Title: Pierniczki Cytrynowe Lemon Gingerbread Cookies
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 large egg
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg and beat until well combined. Then, mix in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and honey until incorporated.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
5. Divide the dough in half and shape each into a disc. Wrap them in plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
7. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake the cookies for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake.
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 the cookies are cooled, dust them with powdered sugar for a snow-like finish.
Enjoy these delightful Pierniczki Cytrynowe Lemon Gingerbread Cookies with your favorite hot beverage or share them as a thoughtful homemade gift during the festive season. Their subtle lemon tang and warm spices will evoke a sense of holiday cheer with every bite. Happy baking!
