Ingredients

3 cups flour
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
250 g butter
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
1 pinch salt
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground aniseed
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon cinnamon
125 g slivered almonds
egg white ( to glaze )
Speculaas cookies are a traditional Dutch holiday food, often enjoyed with a warm cup of tea or coffee. The blend of spices and brown sugar in the dough give these cookies a distinct flavor while the slivered almonds on top add texture and crunch. The holiday season is the perfect time to enjoy these cookies with friends and family, and this recipe makes a large batch to share. They can also be gifted in a decorative tin or cookie jar.

Instructions

1.In a mixing bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, aniseed, ginger, cloves, and nutmeg.
2.In a separate bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
3.Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
4.Divide the dough into two pieces, flatten each to make a disk and wrap in plastic; chill for at least 30 minutes.
5.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper.
6.Roll out each dough disk to approximately 1/8-inch (3mm) thickness.
7.Brush the top of the dough rounds with egg whites then sprinkle with slivered almonds.
8.Cut the dough into shapes or circles, then arrange them on the prepared baking sheets.
9.Bake for 12-15 minutes or until slightly golden on their edges, then transfer to a cooling rack until they reach room temperature.

PROS

These spiced cookies have a distinct flavor and texture that are perfect for the holidays.

The addition of slivered almonds provides a crunchy topping and depth of flavor to each cookie.
This recipe also makes a large batch, perfect for sharing with friends and family.

CONS

These cookies contain a significant amount of butter and sugar and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

They may be too sweet for some people’s tastes.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

This cookie recipe is not particularly healthy, but it can be enjoyed as an occasional holiday treat in moderation.
Spices like cinnamon, aniseed, ginger, and nutmeg have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that have been linked to improved blood sugar control and improved heart health. Almonds are also packed with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats that can support brain function, lower cholesterol, and promote heart health.

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