If you’re looking to add a touch of Polish tradition to your Christmas baking this year, Pierniczki Z Polewa, or Iced Gingerbread Cookies, are an absolute must-try. These deliciously spiced cookies are a staple in Polish homes during the holiday season, offering a perfect blend of warmth and sweetness. The enticing aroma of cinnamon, cloves, and ginger will fill your kitchen as you bake these delightful treats, making them ideal for festive gatherings or cozy evenings by the fire.
*Pierniczki Z Polewa (Iced Gingerbread Cookies)*
**Ingredients:**
– 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– For the icing:
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 2-3 tablespoons milk
– Optional decorations: sprinkles, chopped nuts, or edible glitter
**Instructions:**
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the honey, egg, and vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.
3. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until a smooth dough forms. If the dough is sticky, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
5. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to about 1/4-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters to cut out shapes, such as stars, hearts, or circles.
6. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between each cookie for spreading.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until the edges are just lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake to keep the cookies soft and chewy.
8. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to make a smooth icing. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk for a thinner icing or more powdered sugar for a thicker consistency.
10. Once the cookies are completely cool, drizzle the icing over the cookies or use a small spatula to spread it evenly.
11. If desired, decorate the cookies with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or a sprinkle of edible glitter for a festive touch.
12. Allow the icing to set before storing the cookies in an airtight container. These Pierniczki Z Polewa cookies are best enjoyed within a week to maintain their freshness and flavors.
These Iced Gingerbread Cookies are not only a treat for the taste buds but also a delight for the eyes. Share them with loved ones or bring a batch to a holiday cookie swap for a truly memorable Christmas celebration. Enjoy the heartwarming flavors of the holiday season with these classic Polish cookies that are sure to become a cherished tradition in your own home.
