Nothing says Christmas like the warm and spicy aroma of freshly baked gingerbread cookies. These Pierniczki Decorated Gingerbread Cookies are a traditional Polish sweet treat that are perfect for the holiday season. Not only are they delicious, but they also make for a fun and festive activity to do with family and friends. Get into the holiday spirit by making these charming and flavorful cookies to share with your loved ones, or to gift as a thoughtful gesture. Let’s get baking!
**Pierniczki Decorated Gingerbread Cookies**
**Ingredients:**
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 1/2 teaspoons ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the 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, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
5. Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape each into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets 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 desired shapes.
8. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly browned.
9. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Once the cookies are completely cooled, decorate them with icing, candies, or sprinkles to your liking.
11. Allow the icing to set before storing the cookies in an airtight container.
Enjoy these delightful Pierniczki Decorated Gingerbread Cookies with a cup of hot cocoa or share them with friends and family for a festive holiday treat. Happy baking and happy holidays!
