Authentic German Spekulatius Cookies Recipe

Ingredients

2 cups of all-purpose flour
1 cup of butter
1 cup of sugar
1 large egg
1/2 cup of finely ground almonds
1 tbsp of cinnamon
1 tsp of ground cloves
1 tsp of ground nutmeg
1 tsp of cardamom
1 tsp of baking powder
1/4 tsp of salt
2 tsp of pure vanilla extract
1 tbsp of rum (optional)
1/2 cup of almond slivers for decoration (optional)

Steps and instructions

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and cardamom. Mix until well combined.
In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, vanilla extract, and rum (if using) until well combined.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, a little at a time, into the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in the ground almonds until they are evenly distributed throughout the dough.
Cover the dough and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm).
Using a cookie cutter or a sharp knife, cut the dough into desired shapes, then place them on the prepared baking sheet. If using almond slivers, press them into the top of the cookies now.
Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are slightly golden.
Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl for combining the dry ingredients and the butter mixture.
Whisk - Used for beating the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Measuring Cups - To accurately measure the flour, sugar, and butter.
Measuring Spoons - For precise measurements of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, cardamom, baking powder, salt, vanilla extract, and rum.
Electric Mixer - Optional, but helpful for beating the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Rolling Pin - Used to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
Cookie Cutter - To cut the dough into desired shapes.
Sharp Knife - An alternative to a cookie cutter for cutting the dough into shapes.
Parchment Paper - To line the baking sheet and prevent the cookies from sticking.
Baking Sheet - A flat sheet pan for baking the cookies.
Wire Rack - Used for cooling the cookies after they are baked.

Recipe variations

Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier option.
Replace the butter with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free or vegan version.
Add a teaspoon of almond extract or orange zest for additional flavor.
Include chopped dried fruits, such as raisins or cranberries, in the dough for added texture and sweetness.
Add a pinch of ground ginger for a hint of spiciness.
Instead of ground almonds, use ground hazelnuts or walnuts.
For a chocolate twist, mix in cocoa powder to the dough and add chocolate chips.
Try different shaped cookie cutters or create your own designs using cookie stamps.
Sprinkle the cookies with cinnamon sugar before baking for an extra touch of sweetness.
Experiment with different spices such as cardamom, allspice, or ginger to customize the flavor.

Recipe overview

Enjoy a taste of traditional German Christmas with this delightful Spekulatius recipe. These deliciously aromatic cookies, packed with warming spices and ground almonds, are a holiday favorite in Germany. Our Spekulatius recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, perfect for baking beginners and seasoned bakers alike. The dough is mixed, chilled, then rolled out and cut into your desired shapes before baking to a golden perfection. Optionally, you can add almond slivers for extra crunch and a touch of elegance. These cookies are perfect for gifting, serving at holiday gatherings, or simply enjoying with a hot cup of tea by the fireside. Expect a beautifully spiced, slightly crisp cookie that's sure to be a hit with family and friends. Happy baking!

Common questions

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with a different type of flour? Yes, you can try substituting all or part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend if you prefer.
Can I use margarine instead of butter? Yes, you can use margarine as a substitute for butter if desired. However, the taste and texture may vary slightly.
Can I omit the ground almonds? Yes, you can omit the ground almonds if you have allergies or prefer a different flavor. The cookies will still turn out delicious.
Can I add other spices to the dough? Certainly! Feel free to experiment with other spices like ginger, allspice, or even a pinch of black pepper to add your own twist to the recipe.
Can I freeze the dough? Yes, you can freeze the dough for up to 1 month. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container before freezing.
Can I glaze the cookies? While traditional Spekulatius cookies are not typically glazed, you can certainly add a glaze if you prefer. A simple powdered sugar and milk glaze works well.
How should I store the baked cookies? Store the cooled Spekulatius cookies in an airtight container at room temperature. They should stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.

Serving dishes and utensils

Mixing bowl - A large bowl for combining the dry and wet ingredients.
Electric mixer - Useful for creaming the butter and sugar together.
Measuring cups and spoons - For accurately measuring the ingredients.
Rolling pin - Used to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
Cookie cutters - To cut the dough into various shapes.
Baking sheet - A flat sheet for baking the cookies in the oven.
Parchment paper - To line the baking sheet and prevent the cookies from sticking.
Wire rack - For cooling the cookies after they are baked.
Spatula - To transfer the cookies from the baking sheet to the wire rack.
Flour sifter - Optional, but helpful for sifting the dry ingredients.

Origin stories

Spekulatius is a type of traditional cookie that has found a special place in the hearts of the people in Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, particularly during the Christmas season. Its name is derived from the Latin word 'speculum', which means mirror. This is because the cookies are often imprinted with various images, typically religious, that are a reflection of the wooden molds they are pressed into. Some say that these intricate designs are a nod to the guilds of the Middle Ages, reflecting the profession of the person who made them. Whether it's a windmill for a miller or a horse for a blacksmith, each Spekulatius cookie holds a piece of history, making every bite a nostalgic journey back to the times of old.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.