Polish Gingerbread Cookies (Pierniczki)
Pierniczki are traditional Polish gingerbread cookies with a rich, spiced flavor from cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, sweetened with honey and dark brown sugar. These cookies are slightly soft yet hold their shape, and their flavors deepen over time, making them even more aromatic after a few days. Distinctive for their warm, cozy spice profile and tender texture, Pierniczki are a festive favorite, perfect for holiday baking and gifting.
Ingredients:
For the Cookies:
- 1/3 cup (78 ml) honey
- 1/3 cup (78 ml) dark brown sugar
- ½ cup (118 ml) unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups (473 ml) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp (5 ml) baking soda
- 1/8 tsp (0.6ml) salt
- 2 tsp (10 ml) ground cinnamon
- 2 tsp (10 ml) ground ginger
- ½ tsp (5 ml) ground nutmeg
Method:
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream the dark brown sugar and butter on medium speed. Add the honey and continue beating until smooth, then add the eggs and beat until combined.
Meanwhile, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg in another bowl.
Change the speed of the stand mixer to low and slowly add the dry ingredients, mixing until combined.
Roll the dough into a log and wrap in plastic wrap. Place in the fridge to firm up for at least 1 hour or overnight.
When ready to bake, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mats. Preheat the oven to 350 F (177 C).
Take the dough out of the fridge and unwrap. Slice into discs about 3 tbsp in size and roll into balls in your hands. Place on the baking sheet spaced at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) apart and press down on the tops to flatten slightly.
Place in the oven and bake for about 13 minutes, turning the baking sheet halfway through.
Let cool completely before serving, or transfer to an airtight container to serve later – these cookies taste even better after a couple of days.