The holiday season is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than with a plate full of delicious Christmas cookies? Germany has a long tradition of baking special treats during the holidays, and these 18 traditional German Christmas cookie recipes are sure to become new favorites. From classic Lebkuchen (German gingerbread cookies) and Spritzgebäck (German spritz cookies) to sweet Springerle (anise-flavored pressed cookies) and decadent Schokoladenplätzchen (chocolate cookies), there’s something for every cookie lover on this list. Whether you’re a fan of spicy Zimtsterne (cinnamon stars) or nutty Nussecken (nut corners), these recipes will transport you to the charming streets of Germany during the holiday season.
Vanillekipferl (Vanilla Crescent Cookies)
These buttery, tender cookies are a staple of German baking, perfect for snacking or serving at holiday gatherings. With their delicate vanilla flavor and crispy edges, they’re sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting
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 softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead in vanilla extract.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into crescent shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars)
Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars) are a classic German Christmas treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the sweetness of honey and almonds. These delicate, crispy cookies are perfect for snacking or gifting during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– Egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. Add cinnamon and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add honey and mix until a dough forms.
5. Knead in chopped almonds.
6. Roll out dough to 1/8 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
8. Brush with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly browned.
10. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spritzgebäck (German Spritz Cookies)
Spritzgebäck, also known as German Spritz Cookies, are a classic treat that requires just a few simple ingredients and some festive spirit. These buttery cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet surprise for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup (50g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Colored sprinkles or nonpareils for decoration (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 and confectioners’ sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Lebkuchen (German Gingerbread Cookies)
Lebkuchen, a traditional German gingerbread cookie, is a sweet treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. With its warm spices and soft texture, it’s a classic recipe that’s sure to become a favorite.
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 brown sugar
– 1/2 cup honey
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 1/2 cup chopped candied orange peel (optional)
– 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, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together brown sugar, honey, eggs, and molasses.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or glass.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm to the touch.
8. Allow cookies to cool before dusting with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes per batch
Bethmännchen (Marzipan Cookies)
These classic German cookies are a sweet treat made with almond-based marzipan, perfect for special occasions or as a snack. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create these deliciously chewy treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup marzipan
– 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar
– 1 egg white
– 1 tablespoon orange blossom water (optional)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine marzipan and confectioner’s sugar. Knead until smooth.
3. Beat in the egg white until fully incorporated.
4. If desired, add orange blossom water and mix well.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., hearts or stars).
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spekulatius (Spiced Speculoos Cookies)
These traditional Dutch cookies are a perfect blend of spices and buttery goodness, perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to indulge in a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white sugar
– 1 large egg
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cardamom.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms. If needed, add water to achieve a workable consistency.
5. Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
6. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Springerle (Anise-Flavored Pressed Cookies)
These traditional German cookies are a classic holiday treat, perfect for sharing with friends and family. With their delicate anise flavor and intricate designs, Springerle are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup (100g) all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) anise-flavored extract or anise oil
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add anise extract or oil and mix until well combined.
4. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch (3mm) thickness.
5. Use a Springerle mold or a cookie press to create designs.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Schokoladenplätzchen (Chocolate Cookies)
A classic German cookie recipe that combines rich chocolate with a hint of vanilla and a crumbly texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
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, and cocoa powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Stir in chocolate chips.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Kokosmakronen (Coconut Macaroons)
These chewy coconut macaroons are a classic Swedish treat that’s easy to make and perfect for snacking or serving at parties. With just a few ingredients, you can create a batch of these tasty treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 3 large egg whites
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, sugar, flour, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the egg whites into the coconut mixture until well combined.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Nussecken (Nut Corners)
Nussecken, also known as Nut Corners, are a beloved German cookie that combines the crunch of hazelnuts with the sweetness of butter and sugar. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or serving at holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup hazelnuts, chopped
– 1 tablespoon honey
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, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter until light. Add chopped hazelnuts and mix until combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into triangles.
6. Fold each triangle in half to form a corner shape. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between cookies.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Dominosteine (Layered Christmas Cookies)
This classic German cookie recipe is a festive treat for the holiday season. Layers of buttery dough, jam, and chocolate create a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup jam or preserves (such as strawberry or raspberry)
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 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, cream butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt; mix until just combined.
3. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
4. Spread jam over the center third of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border on either side.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
6. Place melted chocolate over the jam layer.
7. Roll up the dough tightly, starting from one long side. Cut into 1/2 inch thick slices.
8. Place slices on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
10. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Elisenlebkuchen (Soft Almond Lebkuchen)
Experience the warm, spicy flavors of Germany with this classic soft almond lebkuchen recipe. These chewy treats are a staple during the Christmas season and perfect for snacking or gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup finely ground almonds
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 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, almonds, brown sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, egg, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and cardamom. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
6. Dust with confectioners’ sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pfeffernüsse (Peppernut Cookies)
Pfeffernüsse (Peppernut Cookies) Recipe
These traditional German cookies are a staple of Christmas markets and celebrations. With their unique blend of spices, including nutmeg and cardamom, these Pfeffernüsse will transport you to the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– Water as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat the 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, nutmeg, cardamom, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and eggs until light and fluffy. Gradually add the dry ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes or use a cookie cutter.
5. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: About 2 dozen cookies
Marzipankartoffeln (Marzipan Potatoes)
Marzipan Potatoes (Marzipankartoffeln) – a traditional German treat that combines the sweetness of marzipan with the simplicity of a potato shape. This sweet and tender delight is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
– 2 tablespoons almond paste
– 2 tablespoons egg whites
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-15 potatoes, cooked and peeled
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine confectioner’s sugar, almond paste, and egg whites. Mix until smooth.
2. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
3. Roll out the marzipan mixture on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
4. Use a potato-shaped cookie cutter (or the back of a spoon) to cut out potato shapes from the marzipan.
5. Place each potato shape on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None, as these are not cooked!
Hirschhornsalz Cookies (Ammonia Cookies)
These unique cookies have been a staple in German bakeries for centuries. With their distinct ammonia flavor, they’re sure to spark conversations and curiosity.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup ammonium bicarbonate (Hirschhornsalz)
– 1 egg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until coarse crumbs form.
4. Stir in sugar and ammonium bicarbonate.
5. Beat in the egg until well combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Printen (Aachener Printen Cookies)
This classic recipe yields chewy, spicy cookies that are a staple of Christmas traditions in Germany. With the combination of ginger, cinnamon, and dark chocolate, these Printen cookies will transport you to the charming streets of Aachen.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add honey, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves; mix well.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chocolate chips.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Dust with confectioner’s sugar while still warm.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Mandelschnitten (Almond Slices)
Mandelschnitten, or Almond Slices, are a classic German treat that combines the richness of almonds with the sweetness of sugar and honey. This simple recipe yields crispy, golden brown cookies that are perfect for snacking or serving at your next festive gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioner’s sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) water
– 1/2 cup (60g) sliced almonds
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, confectioner’s sugar, and salt.
3. Gradually add water to form a dough. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth.
4. Roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Cut into long, thin strips (about 1/2 inch wide).
5. Place almond slices on one half of each strip, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Fold the other half over the almonds and press edges to seal.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zuckerplätzchen (Sugar Cookies)
These soft and chewy sugar cookies are a staple of German baking tradition. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create these sweet treats that are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Colored sugar or sprinkles for decorating (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, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness.
7. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get into the holiday spirit with these 18 delicious traditional German Christmas cookie recipes! From classic Vanillekipferl and Zimtsterne to festive Springerle and Schokoladenplätzchen, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making Lebkuchen, Bethmännchen, or Spekulatius, and don’t miss the unique flavors of Marzipankartoffeln, Hirschhornsalz Cookies, or Zuckerplätzchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or looking to try something new, these recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your holiday season.
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