Traditional Polish Pierniki (Gingerbread Cookies) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup honey
  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1 egg
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon ginger
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Zest of 1 orange
  • 1/2 cup chopped candied orange peel
  • 1/2 cup chopped candied ginger
  • 1/4 cup slivered almonds
  • For Icing: 2 cups powdered sugar and 3-4 tablespoons milk

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and salt.
  3. In another large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the egg, followed by the honey and orange zest.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
  5. Stir in the candied orange peel, candied ginger, and slivered almonds.
  6. On a floured surface, roll out the dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Using cookie cutters, cut out shapes and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden. Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  8. While the cookies are cooling, make the icing by whisking together the powdered sugar and milk until smooth and glossy. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk or sugar if necessary.
  9. Once the cookies are completely cool, decorate them with the icing. Allow the icing to set before serving or storing.

Tools for making

  • Mixing bowls - You will need large bowls to mix the ingredients.
  • Whisk - A whisk will be necessary to cream the butter and sugar, as well as to mix the icing.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - You will need these to accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Baking sheet - A baking sheet is needed to bake the cookies.
  • Parchment paper - This will prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet.
  • Rolling pin - You will need a rolling pin to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
  • Cookie cutters - Use cookie cutters to cut out different shapes from the dough.
  • Wire rack - A wire rack is used to cool the cookies after baking.
  • Spatula - Use a spatula to transfer the cookies from the baking sheet to the wire rack.

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 version.
  • Add a teaspoon of cardamom or allspice for additional flavor.
  • Substitute maple syrup or molasses for the honey to change the sweetness profile.
  • Include a handful of chopped dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or apricots for added texture and flavor.
  • Add a teaspoon of instant coffee or espresso powder for a hint of coffee flavor.
  • For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
  • Experiment with different shapes and sizes of cookie cutters for a more creative presentation.
  • Drizzle melted chocolate over the cookies after icing them for some extra indulgence.
  • Sprinkle crushed pistachios, shredded coconut, or colored sprinkles on top of the icing for decoration.

Recipe overview

Indulge in a traditional Polish treat with our Pierniki recipe! Pierniki are spiced honey cookies, often likened to gingerbread, and are a delightful blend of sweet, spice, and everything nice. Infused with flavors like ginger, cinnamon, and cloves, studded with candied orange peel and ginger, and topped with a sweet icing, these cookies are sure to please the palate. This recipe will guide you step-by-step, from preparing the cookie dough to adding the finishing touches with the icing. The end result is a batch of beautifully decorated, flavorful cookies that are perfect for holiday celebrations, or simply to enjoy with a cup of tea. Get ready to fill your kitchen with the warm, inviting aromas of these delightful cookies!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
    Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour.
  2. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
    Yes, you can use brown sugar instead of white sugar, but keep in mind that it will affect the color and taste of the cookies.
  3. Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
    Yes, you can use maple syrup as a substitute for honey, but it will alter the flavor of the pierniki.
  4. Can I skip the candied orange peel and ginger?
    Yes, you can omit the candied orange peel and ginger if you prefer, but they add a delightful flavor and texture to the cookies.
  5. Can I use a different type of nut instead of almonds?
    Yes, you can substitute slivered almonds with other nuts like walnuts or pecans if desired.
  6. How long will these cookies stay fresh?
    When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, pierniki cookies can stay fresh for up to 1-2 weeks.
  7. Can I freeze the dough?
    Yes, you can freeze the dough. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw the dough in the refrigerator before rolling and baking.
  8. Can I decorate the cookies with something other than icing?
    Absolutely! Besides icing, you can use colored sugar, sprinkles, or melted chocolate to decorate the cookies.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Mixing bowls - You'll need a few mixing bowls to mix and combine the ingredients.
  • Electric mixer - An electric mixer will make it easier to cream the butter and sugar together, as well as mix the dough.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - You'll need these to accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Baking sheet - A baking sheet is necessary for baking the pierniki cookies.
  • Parchment paper - This will be used to line the baking sheet, preventing the cookies from sticking.
  • Rolling pin - A rolling pin is needed to roll out the dough to the desired thickness.
  • Cookie cutters - Cookie cutters are used to shape the pierniki cookies into various shapes.
  • Wire rack - A wire rack is useful for cooling the cookies after they are baked.
  • Whisk - A whisk is required for making the icing, ensuring it is smooth and well combined.

Origin stories

Pierniki, or Polish gingerbread cookies, are a delightful treat with deep roots in Polish history and culture. The city of Toruń, in particular, is famous for its pierniki. The city's love affair with gingerbread dates back to the Middle Ages when Toruń, a member of the Hanseatic League, enjoyed the benefits of ample trade, including access to exotic spices from the East. This led to the emergence of pierniki as a popular confection. Over the centuries, Toruń's gingerbread craft became so renowned that it was patronized by royalty and visiting dignitaries. Today, the city even houses a living museum where visitors can experience the traditional art of baking pierniki. So deeply embedded in the city's identity, Toruń's skyline is playfully said to be scented with a sweet, spiced fragrance wafting from its gingerbread bakeries.

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.