Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup finely chopped hazelnuts
- 1/2 cup finely chopped candied orange peel
- 1/2 cup finely chopped candied citron
- 1/2 cup finely chopped candied lemon peel
- 1/2 cup finely chopped blanched almonds
- 2 tablespoons grated orange zest
- 2 tablespoons grated lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons brandy
- For the Hazelnut Praline:
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup finely chopped hazelnuts
Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the honey and vanilla.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, beating until just combined. Stir in the hazelnuts, candied orange peel, candied citron, candied lemon peel, almonds, orange zest, and lemon zest.
5. Drop the dough by heaping tablespoons onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches (5 cm) between each cookie. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. To make the Hazelnut Praline: In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is dissolved. Add the hazelnuts and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is a deep golden brown.
7. Remove from the heat and pour onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Let cool completely.
8. Once the cookies are cool, drizzle with the brandy and sprinkle with the Hazelnut Praline.
Time:
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Temperature: 350°F (175°C)
Serving Size: Makes about 24 cookies
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 140
Total Fat: 7 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Cholesterol: 25 mg
Sodium: 45 mg
Carbohydrates: 17 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 10 g
Protein: 2 g
Substitutions for Ingredients:
- For the candied orange peel, citron, and lemon peel, you can substitute any combination of dried fruits, such as raisins, cranberries, cherries, or apricots.
- For the brandy, you can substitute rum or orange juice.
- For the hazelnuts, you can substitute any other type of nut, such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans.
Variations:
- For a different flavor, you can substitute the brandy with amaretto or Grand Marnier.
- For a different texture, you can add 1/2 cup of chopped dark or white chocolate.
- For a different flavor, you can add 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom to the dough.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to measure the ingredients accurately for best results.
- To prevent the cookies from spreading too much, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- To prevent the cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, lightly grease the parchment paper.
Storage Instructions:
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 week.
Reheating Instructions:
The cookies can be reheated in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the cookies on a platter garnished with fresh orange slices and sprigs of mint.
Garnishes:
Fresh orange slices and sprigs of mint.
Pairings:
Serve with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot tea.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve with a side of fresh fruit or a green salad.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the cookies spread too much, chill the dough for 30 minutes before baking.
- If the cookies are too dry, add a few tablespoons of honey to the dough.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure all ingredients are fresh and not expired.
- Make sure to use clean utensils and equipment.
- Make sure to wash your hands before handling the dough.
Food History:
Berner Haselnusslebkuchen is a traditional Swiss cookie that has been around since the 19th century. It is a popular treat during the holiday season and is often served with a glass of cold milk or a cup of hot tea.
Flavor Profiles:
This cookie has a sweet and nutty flavor with hints of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve as an after-dinner treat or as a snack with a cup of hot tea or coffee.
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Region: German