Authentic Swiss Basler Läckerli Recipe

Ingredients

  • 500g honey
  • 400g sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon of coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon of allspice
  • 1 teaspoon of baking powder
  • 750g flour
  • 200g candied lemon peel
  • 200g candied orange peel
  • 100g chopped almonds
  • 1/2 cup of kirsch
  • For the glaze: 200g icing sugar and 5 tablespoons of water

Steps and instructions

  1. In a saucepan, combine the honey and sugar and heat until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  2. Remove the mixture from the heat and add the cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, coriander, cardamom, and allspice. Stir until well combined.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the flour and baking powder. Pour the spice and honey mixture into the bowl and mix well.
  4. Add the candied lemon peel, candied orange peel, and chopped almonds to the mixture. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
  5. Pour the kirsch into the bowl and knead the dough until it becomes firm.
  6. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius (approximately 392 degrees Fahrenheit) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  7. Roll out the dough on a floured surface until it is about 1 cm thick and place it on the prepared baking tray.
  8. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough has risen slightly and is lightly browned.
  9. While the Läckerli is baking, prepare the glaze by mixing the icing sugar and water in a bowl until smooth.
  10. Once the Läckerli is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately brush the glaze onto the hot cookies. Let it cool.
  11. Cut the cooled Läckerli into small squares and serve.

Tools for making

  • Mixing bowls - Used for combining the ingredients.
  • Saucepan - Used for heating and dissolving the honey and sugar.
  • Baking tray - Used for baking the Läckerli in the oven.
  • Parchment paper - Used to line the baking tray and prevent sticking.
  • Rolling pin - Used to roll out the dough.
  • Flour sifter - Used to sift the flour and baking powder.
  • Baking brush - Used to brush the glaze onto the hot Läckerli.
  • Knife - Used to cut the cooled Läckerli into squares.

Recipe variations

  • Replace the honey with maple syrup or agave syrup for a vegan version.
  • Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a slightly richer flavor.
  • Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough for a hint of vanilla flavor.
  • Replace the candied lemon and orange peel with dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.
  • Add a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the dough for a chocolatey variation.
  • Incorporate chopped walnuts or pecans instead of almonds for a different nutty taste.
  • Replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour or almond flour for a healthier option.
  • Add a tablespoon of gingerbread spice mix for a spicier flavor.
  • Include a tablespoon of orange zest for a citrusy kick.
  • Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled Läckerli for a decadent touch.

Recipe overview

This recipe will guide you through the steps of making Basler Läckerli, a traditional Swiss treat from the Basel region, known and loved for its rich, spicy and fruity flavors. These hard spice biscuits, made with honey, nuts, and candied fruit, are wonderfully aromatic and filled with bursts of sweet and tangy tastes. Expect to spend some time in the kitchen as this recipe involves multiple steps including heating, mixing, kneading, baking, and glazing, but the end result is a delectable treat that is well worth the effort. Whether you're making these for a holiday treat, a gift, or simply to enjoy at home, Läckerli are sure to please. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome!

Common questions

  1. Can I substitute honey with another sweetener? It is not recommended to substitute honey in this recipe as it plays a crucial role in the flavor and texture of Basler Läckerli. Using a different sweetener may significantly alter the final result.
  2. Can I use pre-made candied peels? Yes, you can use pre-made candied lemon and orange peels. However, make sure they are of good quality and finely chopped before adding them to the dough.
  3. Is it necessary to use kirsch? Kirsch, a clear cherry brandy, is traditionally used in Basler Läckerli to enhance the flavor. If you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute it with an equal amount of cherry juice or omit it altogether.
  4. Can I freeze Basler Läckerli? Yes, Basler Läckerli can be frozen. Once baked and cooled, store them in an airtight container or freezer bags and place them in the freezer. Thaw them at room temperature before serving.
  5. How long do Basler Läckerli stay fresh? When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, Basler Läckerli can stay fresh for up to 2 weeks.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking tray - Used to bake the Läckerli in the oven.
  • Parchment paper - Used to line the baking tray and prevent the Läckerli from sticking.
  • Saucepan - Used to heat and combine the honey and sugar.
  • Large bowl - Used to mix the flour, baking powder, and other ingredients.
  • Mixing spoon - Used to stir and combine the ingredients in the bowl.
  • Floured surface - A clean and dry surface sprinkled with flour for rolling out the dough.
  • Pastry brush - Used to apply the glaze onto the baked Läckerli.
  • Knife - Used to cut the cooled Läckerli into small squares before serving.

Origin stories

Basler Läckerli, a Swiss gingerbread cookie, hails from the city of Basel, where it enjoys a rich history that dates back to the 15th century. Originally concocted for the Basel Council during their Christmas festivities, the Läckerli quickly gained popularity and became a favorite amongst the townsfolk. The word 'Läckerli' itself is derived from the Swiss German word 'lecker', which translates to 'delicious'. These hearty treats travelled along with the spice traders of old, spreading their fame across borders. Today, they are enjoyed worldwide, especially during the winter holidays, just as they were in the merry old times of the Basel Council.

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.