It’s the most wonderful time of the year – Christmas cookie season! There’s nothing quite like the sweet aroma of freshly baked cookies wafting from the oven, filling your home with joy and cheer. In Germany, Christmas cookies are a beloved tradition, with each region having its own unique specialties and family recipes passed down through generations. In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 classic German Christmas cookie recipes that are sure to delight both kids and adults alike. From crispy spritzgebäck to chewy vanillekipferl, we’ve got the perfect treats to add some festive flair to your holiday season.
Read on to discover these delicious and authentic German Christmas cookies…
Vanillekipferl (Vanilla Crescent Cookies)
Delightfully sweet and buttery, these classic German cookies are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (120ml) granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure 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. In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time.
4. Gradually mix in the flour mixture, then stir in vanilla extract.
5. Roll out dough on a lightly 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 on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Zimtsterne (Cinnamon Stars)
These sweet and spicy treats are a traditional German cookie that’s perfect for the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1 egg, beaten
– 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, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in cinnamon and egg until well combined.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into star shapes using a cookie cutter.
6. Place stars 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
Lebkuchen (German Gingerbread Cookies)
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these classic German cookies, infused with the warmth of ginger and spices.
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
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons butter, softened
– 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, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together brown sugar, honey, and molasses until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs and softened butter until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, 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 a glass.
8. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm to the touch.
9. Allow cookies to cool completely before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spritzgebäck (German Spritz Cookies)
A classic German cookie recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. These buttery cookies are easy to make and require no rolling or cutting – simply pipe them onto a baking sheet!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in egg and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add flour, mixing until just combined.
5. Fit a piping bag with a large star tip. Fill the piping bag with the cookie dough.
6. Pipe cookies onto the prepared baking sheet in desired shape (e.g., stars or strips).
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
9. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bethmännchen (Marzipan Cookies)
These traditional German cookies are a sweet and tender delight, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almond paste (marzipan)
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 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, combine almond paste, confectioners’ sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Beat in the egg until well combined.
4. Add the melted butter and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spekulatius (Spiced Speculaas Cookies)
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these traditional Dutch Spiced Speculaas Cookies, also known as Sculptulatius. These soft and chewy cookies are flavored with a blend of warm spices, making them perfect for a sweet treat during the holiday season.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tsp ground ginger
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
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 powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix 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 a glass.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Anisplätzchen (Anise Cookies)
These buttery cookies are infused with the warm, sweet flavor of anise and are a classic German treat. Perfect for dunking in tea or coffee, Anisplätzchen are a delicious addition to any snack time.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup anise seeds
– 1 egg, beaten
– 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 and baking powder.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add anise seeds and mix well.
4. Beat in the egg until fully incorporated.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, 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.
8. Place on prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Kokosmakronen (Coconut Macaroons)
These chewy coconut macaroon cookies are a classic Swedish treat, perfect for snacking or as a sweet dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
5. Fold the egg mixture into the coconut mixture until well combined.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Allow to cool on the baking sheet before transferring to a wire rack.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Elisenlebkuchen (Soft Almond Gingerbread Cookies)
These soft and chewy cookies are a traditional German holiday treat, infused with the warmth of ginger and the sweetness of almonds. Perfect for sharing with friends and family during the festive season.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioners’ sugar, ginger, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Fold in almonds.
6. Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Springerle (Anise-Flavored Springerle Cookies)
These traditional German cookies are flavored with anise and have a delicate, tender texture. Perfect for dunking in tea or coffee.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 2 teaspoons anise extract
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy.
3. Add yeast, salt, eggs, and anise extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add flour, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or the rim of a glass.
6. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Schokoladenplätzchen (Chocolate Cookies)
These chewy cookies are a classic German treat that combines the richness of dark chocolate with the warmth of spices. Perfect for a sweet indulgence any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
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 brown sugar.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Stir in chocolate chips and spices.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Bratapfelplätzchen (Baked Apple Cookies)
These soft and chewy cookies are infused with the warm flavors of baked apples, making them a perfect treat for any time of day. With just a few ingredients, you can easily create these delicious Bratapfelplätzchen at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped dried apples (such as apple chips)
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a dough forms.
4. Stir in egg, vanilla extract, and chopped dried apples.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches of space between each cookie.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Nussecken (Nut Corners)
Nussecken (Nut Corners) are a classic German cookie that combines the crunch of nuts with the sweetness of caramel and the chewiness of corn flakes. These bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as a sweet addition to your holiday celebrations.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup corn flakes
– 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon caramel syrup (or dulce de leche)
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together corn flakes and hazelnuts.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sugar and softened butter. Mix until smooth.
4. Add caramel syrup and salt to the sugar mixture. Stir until well combined.
5. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
6. Drop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
8. Remove from oven and let cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pfeffernüsse (Peppernut Cookies)
Experience the traditional German delight of Pfeffernüsse, a sweet and spicy cookie that’s perfect for holiday seasons. These soft and chewy treats are flavored with pepper and spices, giving them a unique aroma and taste.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 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 soda, cinnamon, cloves, and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, cream together sugar and butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the 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 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until firm to the touch.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Dominosteine (Chocolate and Marzipan Cookies)
A classic German cookie recipe that combines the richness of chocolate with the sweetness of marzipan.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 cup (50g) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup (120g) marzipan, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup (120g) dark chocolate chips or chunks
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Pinch of salt
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. Stir in chopped marzipan and dark chocolate chips or chunks.
5. Beat in the lightly beaten egg and add a pinch of salt.
6. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch space between each cookie.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Hirschgeweihplätzchen (Reindeer Antler Cookies)
These traditional German cookies are a festive treat, perfect for Christmas gatherings. The delicate antler shape and powdered sugar coating add to their charm.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 large egg
– Powdered sugar for coating
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 and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg.
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 antler shapes using a cookie cutter or a knife.
7. Place cookies on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool before coating with powdered sugar.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Marzipankartoffeln (Marzipan Potatoes)
A traditional German recipe that combines the sweetness of marzipan with the earthiness of potatoes, creating a unique and delicious side dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup marzipan, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine potato slices and melted butter. Toss until the potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Add chopped marzipan, salt, and toss again to distribute the marzipan evenly among the potatoes.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and lightly caramelized.
6. Remove the foil and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using). Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Mandelschnitten (Almond Slices)
Mandel Slices Recipe (Almond Slices)
These crispy, buttery Mandel slices are a classic German treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a sweet accompaniment to coffee or tea.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) ground almonds
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup (120ml) unsalted butter, softened
– 1 egg, beaten
– Confectioner’s 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 almonds, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Beat in the egg until the mixture forms a dough.
5. Roll out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Cut into desired shapes (e.g., rectangles or diamonds).
7. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading during baking.
8. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Zuckerstangenplätzchen (Candy Cane Cookies)
Get into the holiday spirit with these festive cookies, shaped like candy canes and flavored with peppermint extract. These sweet treats are perfect for a Christmas cookie exchange or as a special treat for your loved ones.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 teaspoons peppermint extract
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Red and white sprinkles or crushed candy canes for decoration
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, cream together butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add confectioners’ sugar and peppermint extract; mix well.
4. Gradually add flour, baking powder, and salt; mix until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope, about 1/2 inch in diameter.
6. Cut into 3-inch lengths to create candy cane shapes. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
8. Allow cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Honiglebkuchen (Honey Gingerbread Cookies)
Sweet and Spicy Honey Gingerbread Cookies
As the days grow shorter and the air crisper, warm up your kitchen with these classic German honey gingerbread cookies, infused with a hint of spice and a drizzle of golden honey.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/4 tsp ground cloves
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 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 soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream honey, brown sugar, and butter until smooth. Beat in eggs.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until a dough forms.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
6. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving 1 inch space between each cookie.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are lightly golden. Allow to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get into the festive spirit with these 20 classic German Christmas cookie recipes! From traditional treats like Vanillekipferl and Zimtsterne to delicious innovations like Schokoladenplätzchen and Zuckerstangenplätzchen, there’s something for everyone. These mouthwatering cookies are sure to delight your loved ones on Christmas morning. Try making some of these German favorites at home, such as Lebkuchen, Spritzgebäck, or Elisenlebkuchen. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a fun holiday activity, this collection has something for every skill level and taste bud.
