German Anise Christmas Cookies (Springerle)

May 11, 2023May 11, 20230 3

Traditional German Anise Christmas Cookies (Springerle)

by The Chefin Cookies

Prep

30 min

Cook

10-12 min

Ready In

3+ hours

Level

Difficult

Rating

Ingredients

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

Calories

Sugar

12g

Fat

0.6g

Springerle is a traditional German cookie that is typically baked around the Christmas season, but can be enjoyed all year round. This cookie gets its unique flavor from the anise seed, which gives it a hint of licorice, combined with a light lemony zest. These cookies' intricate designs are created using a Springerle rolling pin, which embosses the dough with beautiful designs, making them a fun and festive treat to bake and share.

Instructions

1.	In a large mixing bowl, mix together the flour and baking powder.
2.	In another mixing bowl, beat the eggs with a hand mixer until light and frothy.
3.	Gradually add the confectioners' sugar and continue beating until the mixture thickens.
4.	Add the lemon zest and crushed anise seed and mix well.
5.	Gradually add the flour mixture into the egg mixture, stirring until a soft dough forms.
6.	Knead the dough for a few minutes until smooth.
7.	Roll out the dough on a floured surface, about 1/2 inch thick.
8.	Using a Springerle rolling pin, carefully press the design into the dough.
9.	Cut the dough into individual cookies and place on a baking sheet.
10.	Let the cookies dry at room temperature for several hours or overnight.
11.	Preheat the oven to 300°F.
12.	Bake the cookies for 10-12 minutes or until set but not browned.
13.	Let the cookies cool completely before serving or storing.

PROS

These traditional German cookies have a unique and flavorful taste that is perfect for the holiday season.

Their beautiful designs make them a joy to bake and serve for parties or as gifts.

CONS

These cookies’ dough must rest and dry for several hours before baking.

Using the special Springerle rolling pin to make the design can take some practice to perfect.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Anise seed, one of the main ingredients in these cookies, has been shown to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Additionally, it has been linked to aiding in digestion, promoting bone health, and improving respiratory conditions.

	4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
	1 teaspoon baking powder
	4 eggs
	1 pound confectioners ' sugar
	1 tablespoon lemon zest
	1 tablespoon anise seed , ground
	1 tablespoon anise seed , crushed