Classic German Cookie Recipes You Need to Try!
German cookies are a staple of European baking traditions, with a rich history and diverse array of flavors and textures. From sweet and indulgent treats like chocolate chip cookies to more delicate and intricate designs like springerle, there’s something for everyone in the world of German cookie-making. In this article, we’ll be diving into 20 classic German cookie recipes that are sure to please even the most discerning palate.
From traditional favorites like Lebkuchen and Pfeffernüsse to more modern twists on old classics, these cookies offer a glimpse into Germany’s rich baking heritage. So whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide to German cookie recipes.
Stay tuned for the full list of 20 delicious cookie recipes and get ready to indulge in the sweet tastes of Germany!
Vanillekipferl (Vanilla Crescent Cookies)
These delicate, buttery cookies are a classic Austrian treat, flavored with vanilla and topped with a sweet, crunchy hazelnut praline. Perfect for dunking in coffee or tea, or enjoying as a sweet snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioner’s sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg yolk
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Hazelnut praline topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioner’s sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, egg yolk, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into crescent shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Hazelnut Praline Topping:
– 1/4 cup (30g) hazelnuts, chopped
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Mix together in a small bowl and sprinkle over cooled cookies.
Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars)
Zimtsterne, also known as Cinnamon Stars, are traditional German cookies that are soft, sweet, and bursting with warm cinnamon flavor. Perfect for a cozy winter treat or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add cinnamon and mix until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
6. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spritzgebäck (German Spritz Cookies)
Spritzgebäck, also known as German Spritz Cookies, are a traditional treat that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. These buttery cookies are flavored with vanilla and have a delicate texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour, mixing until just combined.
5. Use a cookie press or piping bag to pipe the dough onto the prepared baking sheet in desired shapes.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
7. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Lebkuchen (German Gingerbread Cookies)
This classic German gingerbread cookie recipe yields soft, spicy, and sweet treats perfect for the holiday season. With a hint of cinnamon and molasses, these lebkuchen are a staple in many German households during Christmas.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons rum or water (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together brown sugar, honey, and molasses until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs and rum or water (if using).
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm to the touch.
9. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pfeffernüsse (Peppernut Cookies)
These crunchy and flavorful cookies are a staple of German Christmas celebrations. With their distinct pepper flavor, they’re sure to become a new holiday tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon rum or vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, salt, baking soda, and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and egg until smooth. Add rum or vanilla extract, if using.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Springerle (Anise-Flavored Cookies)
Springerle cookies are a traditional German treat, characterized by their delicate anise flavor and intricate designs created using special mats or rolling pins. This recipe yields a classic Springerle with a subtle sweetness and a hint of licorice from the anise.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon anise extract
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and softened butter until smooth.
3. Add anise extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add flour and salt; mix until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness.
6. Use a Springerle mat or rolling pin with a decorative design to imprint the cookies.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5cm) space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Spekulatius (Spiced Speculoos Cookies)
These traditional Dutch cookies are flavored with warm spices and caramelized sugar, making them a perfect treat for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup caramelized sugar (see note)
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Note: To caramelize sugar, melt 1/4 cup white granulated sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly, until it turns a deep amber color.
Bethmännchen (Marzipan Cookies)
These classic German cookies are a staple of Christmas markets and bakeries throughout the country. Made with ground almonds, sugar, and egg whites, these delicate treats are flavored with almond extract and have a subtle marzipan taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) ground almonds
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon almond extract
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together almonds and sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Add almond extract and fold gently into the almond mixture.
4. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch (2.5 cm) space between each cookie.
5. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Allow cookies to cool on wire rack before dusting with confectioner’s sugar.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Hildabrötchen (Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies)
Hildabrötchen (Hazelnut Shortbread Cookies)
A classic German cookie recipe, Hildabrötchen combines the richness of hazelnuts with the buttery goodness of shortbread. These crumbly treats are perfect for a sweet snack or as a gift.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 sticks (6 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter and confectioners’ sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add flour and salt; mix until just combined.
4. Stir in chopped hazelnuts and granulated sugar.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., squares, circles).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Biberle (Honey-Spiced Cookies)
These classic Swiss cookies, known as Biberle, are a delightful treat to enjoy with a warm cup of coffee or tea. With their honey and spices, they’re the perfect combination of sweet and savory.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, mix honey, egg, and melted butter until well combined.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass rim.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Nussecken (Nut Corners)
Nussecken (Nut Corners) Recipe
A classic German cookie recipe that combines crunchy pecans with chewy, buttery dough, Nussecken are a sweet and satisfying treat. Perfect for snacking or serving at your next holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
3. Fold in chopped pecans and salt.
4. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares or shapes of your choice.
5. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool on wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Kokosmakronen (Coconut Macaroons)
A classic Swedish treat that’s easy to make and deliciously sweet, these coconut macaroons are a perfect snack or dessert. Made with just a few simple ingredients, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together coconut, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until frothy. Add softened butter and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch between each macaroon.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Schokoladenplätzchen (Chocolate Cookies)
These classic German cookies are a staple of any holiday season. With their rich chocolate flavor and crumbly texture, they’re sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually mix in the flour mixture until just combined.
6. Stir in chocolate chips.
7. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Anisplätzchen (Anise Cookies)
These sweet and spicy anise cookies are a classic German treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With their distinctive licorice flavor, they’re sure to be a hit with anyone who tries them.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp ground anise
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and anise.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Mandelschnitten (Almond Slices)
These delicate almond cookies are a traditional German treat, perfect for dunking in tea or coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg white
– 1 tablespoon almond extract
– 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
4. Beat in the egg white and almond extract until smooth.
5. Fold in the sliced almonds.
6. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into thin strips, about 3 inches long.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
10. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Haselnussmakronen (Hazelnut Macaroons)
These chewy treats combine the nutty flavor of hazelnuts with the classic simplicity of macaroon cookies. Perfect for a sweet snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (60g) ground hazelnuts
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, ground hazelnuts, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until frothy. Gradually add granulated sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the egg mixture into the hazelnut mixture until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown on the edges.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Linzer Cookies (Jam-Filled Shortbread)
These classic cookies are a staple of Austrian baking, characterized by their buttery shortbread crust and sweet jam filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup raspberry or apricot jam
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool completely before filling with jam.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Zuckergebäck (Sugar Cookies)
Classic German Zuckergebäck (Sugar Cookies)
This traditional recipe yields a batch of tender, sweet, and utterly delicious sugar cookies that are perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying these delightful treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
3. Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Enjoy your delicious Zuckergebäck!
Marzipankartoffeln (Marzipan Potatoes)
Marzipankartoffeln, or Marzipan Potatoes, are a traditional German Christmas treat that combines the sweetness of marzipan with the warmth of potato dough. These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday cookie exchanges or as a special dessert for your loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup marzipan
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour, butter, and sugar. Mix until a dough forms.
3. Add marzipan and mix until well combined.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Use a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass to cut out shapes.
6. Place shapes on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each potato.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Schneeballen (Snowball Cookies)
These classic German cookies are a staple of holiday celebrations, with their sweet and nutty flavors. Make them for your loved ones to enjoy the festive spirit.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon milk
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Fold in chopped walnuts.
5. Roll dough into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the sweet tradition of German baking with these 20 classic cookie recipes! From vanilla crescents to spicy speculoos, and from marzipan treats to chocolatey delights, this collection has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With ingredients like hazelnuts, almonds, and anise, these cookies offer a unique blend of flavors and textures that will transport you to the charming streets of Germany. So go ahead, grab a cup of coffee, and get baking!
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