Livonian Spice Cookies

Ingredients

While the Livonian Spice Cookies draw inspiration from the German Pfeffernuss, they incorporate Livonian culinary influences to create a unique twist. Livonian cuisine is known for its use of local spices and flavors, which have been incorporated into this recipe. Additionally, Livonian Spice Cookies are traditionally dusted with powdered sugar, giving them a distinct appearance. We alse have the original recipe for Pfeffernuss, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 large egg 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Powdered sugar, for dusting Powdered sugar, for dusting

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 70 kcal / 293 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 3g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 5g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 0.3g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
2. 2.
   Add the softened butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until the dough comes together.
3. 3.
   Shape the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. 4.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. 5.
   Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. 6.
   Place the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between them.
7. 7.
   Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are lightly golden brown.
8. 8.
   Remove the cookies from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack.
9. 9.
   Once cooled, dust the Livonian Spice Cookies generously with powdered sugar.
10. 10.
    Serve and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Butter — Make sure the butter is softened at room temperature for easier mixing with the other ingredients.
• Brown sugar — If you prefer a deeper molasses flavor, you can use dark brown sugar instead of light brown sugar.
• Ground spices — For the best flavor, use freshly ground spices. If possible, grind whole cinnamon sticks, cloves, and cardamom pods.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of flavor, you can add a pinch of black pepper to the dough.
• If you prefer a spicier taste, increase the amount of ground cloves and ginger.
• To achieve a uniform size and shape, use a cookie scoop or melon baller to portion the dough.
• Allow the cookies to cool completely before dusting them with powdered sugar to prevent it from melting.
• Store the Livonian Spice Cookies in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Serving advice

Serve the Livonian Spice Cookies alongside a cup of warm tea or mulled wine for a cozy and comforting experience. They are perfect for festive gatherings or as a sweet treat during the holiday season.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Livonian Spice Cookies on a decorative platter and dust them generously with powdered sugar. You can also sprinkle some extra ground spices on top for an added visual appeal.