Traditional Springerle

Traditional Springerle
  • PREP TIME
    30 mins
  • COOK TIME
    30 mins
  • TOTAL TIME
    9 hrs
  • SERVING
    48 People
  • VIEWS
    87

Transport yourself to a German Christmas market with these exquisitely embossed Springerle cookies. Infused with the subtle warmth of anise, these traditional treats boast a delicate flavor and a beautifully intricate design, making them a stunning addition to any holiday table.

Ingridients

Adjust Servings

Nutrition

  • Carbohydrate
    16 g
  • Cholesterol
    16 mg
  • Fiber
    0 g
  • Protein
    2 g
  • Saturated Fat
    0 g
  • Sodium
    16 mg
  • Sugar
    9 g
  • Fat
    1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat
    0 g

Follow The Directions

01

Step

Prepare the Baking Sheets: Lightly coat four cookie sheets with cooking spray. Evenly sprinkle the crushed anise seeds over the sprayed surface of each sheet. Set aside. (5 minutes)

02

Step

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder until thoroughly combined. This ensures even distribution of the baking powder for a consistent rise. (3 minutes)

03

Step

Cream Wet Ingredients: In a separate large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat the mixture on medium-high speed until it becomes light, fluffy, and pale in color. This may take 5 to 8 minutes. The increased volume will create a more tender cookie.

04

Step

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, mixing on low speed until a thick dough forms. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies. (5 minutes)

05

Step

Shape the Cookies: Lightly flour a clean work surface. Working with small portions of the dough at a time, roll it out to a thickness of about 1/4 inch. Gently sift confectioners' sugar over the surface of the dough to prevent the molds from sticking.

06

Step

Emboss the Designs: Place your Springerle molds firmly and evenly onto the sugared dough, pressing down to ensure the design is clearly imprinted. Carefully remove the mold. Use a small, sharp knife or a pastry wheel to cut around each cookie, separating it from the surrounding dough.

07

Step

Prepare for Drying: Place the cut cookies onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart to allow for even drying. (20 minutes)

08

Step

Dry the Cookies: Cover the baking sheets with a lightweight, clean cotton cloth. Allow the cookies to dry at room temperature for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight. This drying process is crucial for preserving the embossed designs during baking. (8 hours)

09

Step

Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to a low temperature of 250 degrees F (120 degrees C). The low temperature helps the cookies retain their shape and prevents them from browning too quickly. (15 minutes)

10

Step

Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven until the tops are pale brown and the cookies feel set to the touch. This typically takes 25 to 30 minutes. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times may vary depending on your oven.

11

Step

Cool and Store: Once baked, carefully transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely. Store the cooled Springerle cookies in an airtight container. They will keep for several weeks and their flavor will continue to develop over time.

For a stronger anise flavor, consider adding a few drops of anise extract to the dough along with the vanilla.
Springerle molds come in a variety of intricate designs. Experiment with different molds to create a unique assortment of cookies.
If you don't have Springerle molds, you can use other decorative molds or simply cut the dough into shapes with a knife or cookie cutters.
The drying time is essential for achieving the characteristic 'foot' on the bottom of Springerle cookies. Do not skip this step!
Springerle cookies are traditionally made with anise, but you can experiment with other flavorings such as lemon zest, orange zest, or cardamom.

Damien Rath

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.

RECIPE REVIEWS

Avarage Rating: 4.7/ 5 ( 29 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (9)
  • General Hartmann

    I added a bit of lemon zest, as suggested, and it gave the cookies a lovely, bright flavor.

  • Dayna Keebler

    The anise flavor really brings back memories of my childhood Christmases.

  • Crystal Sipes

    Thank you for sharing this wonderful recipe. It's a new tradition in my family.

  • Josephine Beattyschamberger

    I've tried other Springerle recipes before, but this one is by far the best!

  • Christian Purdy

    I was a bit intimidated to try this recipe, but the instructions were so clear, and the results were amazing!

  • Angeline Mraz

    Be patient with the drying time; it's crucial for the best results.

  • Christy Christiansen

    These Springerle cookies are a family favorite! The anise flavor is just perfect, and the embossed designs make them so festive.

  • Zoie Kuvalis

    These cookies are perfect with a cup of hot tea or coffee during the holidays.

  • Cristina Runolfsdottir

    The drying time really makes a difference. My cookies came out with beautifully defined designs. Thank you for the tip!

LEAVE A REVIEW

Please Rate