As the holiday season draws near, my kitchen transforms into a treasure trove of warmth and nostalgia. The moment I open the jar of mixed candied citrus peel, I’m met with the zesty scent that sparks memories of German Christmas markets bustling with laughter and cheer. This is the inspiration behind my Hazelnut Cocoa Cookies – a delightful fusion of rich cocoa and fragrant spices that captures the essence of festive baking.
When I first tried my hand at these cookies, I had hoped for something special to share with friends and family, and oh, did they deliver! Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, they boast an inviting flavor that combines the earthiness of toasted hazelnuts with the refreshing twist of lemon zest. Perfect for gifting or simply indulging, these cookies are a must-try for anyone craving a homemade treat that tantalizes the taste buds without requiring hours in the kitchen. Let’s dive into this delicious journey together and create a batch of German Christmas magic!
Why love this German Christmas Cookie recipe?
Irresistible flavors: The combination of toasted hazelnuts and rich cocoa offers a luxurious taste experience that will captivate your palate.
Festive aromas: Infused with warm spices and zesty lemon, these cookies fill your kitchen with the delightful scents of the holiday season.
Unique twist: Candied citrus peel adds a tangy surprise, elevating this recipe beyond traditional Christmas cookies.
Easy to make: With straightforward instructions and minimal prep time, even novice bakers can whip up a stunning batch in no time.
Perfect for sharing: These crowd-pleasing cookies are ideal for holiday gatherings, making them a thoughtful gift or a festive treat to share with loved ones.
German Christmas Cookie Ingredients
For the Cookie Dough
• ¼ cup (60ml) water – Adds moisture for a soft texture in the cookie.
• ¾ cup (150g) sugar – Sweetens the cookies and aids in achieving that delightful crunch.
• ½ cup (170g) honey – Brings a natural sweetness and slightly chewy texture.
• ⅔ cup (100g) mixed candied citrus peel – Adds tangy bursts of flavor, making these German Christmas Cookies truly unique.
• 1 cup (100g) toasted, ground hazelnuts – Infuses a nutty richness that complements the chocolate perfectly.
• 3¼ cups (450g) flour – Provides structure to support the cookie’s delightful texture.
• 6 tablespoons (40g) unsweetened cocoa powder – Delivers rich chocolate flavor essential for these cookies.
• Zest of one lemon – Brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing hint to each bite.
• 2 tablespoons German Lebkuchen spice mix – Offers a warm spiciness characteristic of German baking traditions.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Enhances the cozy aroma and flavor, perfect for holiday treats.
• ½ teaspoon fine sea salt – Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 2 teaspoons baking soda – Helps the cookies rise and become perfectly fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Aids in leavening the dough for a light texture.
• ½ cup (120ml) milk – Provides creaminess and helps bind the dough together.
• 1 large egg – Acts as a binding agent, ensuring a rich, cohesive dough.
For the Glaze
• 1 cup (120g) icing sugar – Creates a sweet, glossy finish that adds visual appeal to the cookies.
• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder – Enhances the chocolatey richness of the glaze.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice – Adds a tartness that balances the sweetness of the icing.
• A small amount of water, if needed – Adjusts the consistency for the perfect drizzle or spreadable glaze.
How to Make German Christmas Cookies
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper. This will ensure your cookies bake evenly and don’t stick.
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Combine the water, sugar, honey, and mixed candied citrus peel in a large mixing bowl. Mix until the sugar dissolves, creating a fragrant syrupy base for your cookies.
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Stir in the toasted, ground hazelnuts, flour, cocoa powder, lemon zest, German Lebkuchen spice mix, cinnamon, salt, baking soda, and baking powder. Aim for a dough that is soft but not sticky—this is where the magic begins!
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Add the milk and egg to the mixture, and combine until the dough is smooth and well-blended. You should see a rich color from the cocoa and a delightful texture from the nuts.
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Scoop the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, shaping them into desired forms—rounds or mounds work beautifully. Leave space between each, as they’ll spread while baking.
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Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are crisp and the tops are set. Keep an eye on them—golden brown is the goal!
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Prepare the glaze by mixing the icing sugar, cocoa powder, lemon juice, and a touch of water until smooth. It should be thick enough to drizzle but runny enough to spread.
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Drizzle or spread the glaze on the cooled cookies. Allow them to set for a few minutes before enjoying these delightful treats!
Optional: Sprinkle with extra toasted hazelnuts for added crunch and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Hazelnut Cocoa Cookies?
Pair the rich and aromatic flavors of these cookies with delightful accompaniments to create a heartwarming dessert experience.
- Hot Cocoa: A cozy mug of hot cocoa enhances the chocolate flavor, making each sweet bite even more indulgent. Enjoy it on chilly nights!
- Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee beautifully balances the sweetness of the cookies, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. The contrast of flavors will leave you satisfied.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm cookies, providing a delightful melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Warm spiced apple cider complements the autumnal notes of the Lebkuchen spice, creating a festive atmosphere. It’s like a hug in a cup!
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of bright flavors, cleansing the palate while balancing the richness of the cookies with a burst of freshness.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses can enhance the cookie’s nutty flavor, creating a sweet and savory pairing that’s both sophisticated and enjoyable.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side allows you to add creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the cookie’s texture.
- Peppermint Tea: After a holiday meal, the soothing notes of peppermint tea provide a refreshing end, making it a lovely palate cleanser.
- Chocolate Fondue: Double the chocolatey goodness by serving these cookies with a warm chocolate fondue for dipping. It’s an indulgent treat that no one can resist!
German Christmas Cookie Variations
Feel free to get creative with these delightful cookies and make them your own!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a tasty alternative that everyone can enjoy.
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Vegan: Replace milk with almond or oat milk, use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water), and swap honey for maple syrup.
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Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter or tahini instead of hazelnuts for a similar creamy texture without any nuts.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dough for a warm flavor boost that’s perfect for those who love a bit of heat!
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Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips or chunks for a gooey chocolate surprise inside each cookie—an indulgent treat.
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Citrus Burst: Swap the lemon zest for orange or lime zest for a fresh twist that brightens every bite with new flavor perspectives.
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Dried Fruit: Incorporate chopped dried cranberries or apricots for a chewy texture and a hint of fruity sweetness that balances the rich chocolate.
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Cocoa Powder: Experiment with flavored cocoa powder like dark or white chocolate for a decadent twist that elevates the classic flavors.
Let your imagination run wild—each variation can turn these cookies into a different experience for your taste buds!
Make Ahead Options
These German Christmas Cookies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix all the ingredients, form the dough into balls, and refrigerate them in an airtight container. This will keep the flavors intact and prevent the dough from becoming too soft. When ready to bake, take the dough out, let it sit for about 10 minutes at room temperature, then bake as directed. The glaze can also be made ahead and stored at room temperature, ensuring you can drizzle it on right before serving for that fresh, delicious touch. Enjoy the convenience of having these festive treats ready to go!
How to Store and Freeze German Christmas Cookies
Room Temperature: Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain their deliciousness and softness.
Fridge: If you prefer extra freshness for up to a week, you can keep the cookies in the fridge, just be sure to place them in a tightly sealed container.
Freezer: For longer storage, these German Christmas cookies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container to avoid sticking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw on the counter or gently warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes to refresh the texture.
Expert Tips for German Christmas Cookies
Texture Check: The key to perfect cookies is not overmixing the dough after adding milk and egg—aim for a smooth, cohesive mixture without lumps.
Watch the Bake: Baking times can vary based on your oven. Keep an eye on the edges; they should be lightly golden for the ideal texture of these German Christmas cookies.
Cooling Time: Let the cookies cool completely before glazing. This ensures the glaze adheres properly and doesn’t melt into the cookies.
Glaze Consistency: Adjust the glaze with a little water or icing sugar as needed. You want it thick enough to coat but thin enough to drizzle elegantly.
Storage Secrets: Store cookies in an airtight container to maintain freshness. For longer shelf life, layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Hazelnut Cocoa Cookies Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for Hazelnut Cocoa Cookies?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, opt for fresh hazelnuts and look for candied citrus peel that isn’t overly sticky or hard. Ensure your honey hasn’t crystalized, as this can affect texture. Sift cocoa powder before adding to avoid lumps, and make sure your baking soda and powder are still active for the best rise.
What is the best way to store Hazelnut Cocoa Cookies?
For optimal freshness, place the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want them to last longer, pop them in the fridge inside a tightly sealed container for about a week. You can also layer them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Can I freeze Hazelnut Cocoa Cookies?
The more, the merrier! You can absolutely freeze these cookies for up to 3 months. Just layer them with parchment paper in an airtight container to keep them from sticking together. When you’re ready to enjoy, take them out of the freezer and let them thaw on the counter or warm them gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for a few minutes.
What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky?
If the dough feels sticky, which can happen based on humidity, try chilling it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, sprinkle in a bit more flour, a tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a manageable consistency. Just be cautious not to overdo it, as too much flour can make your cookies dense!
Are Hazelnut Cocoa Cookies suitable for people with nut allergies?
Unfortunately, these cookies are not advisable for those with nut allergies, as they contain ground hazelnuts. However, if you are baking for someone with such allergies, consider substituting the hazelnuts with sunflower seeds or combining a nut-free chocolate cookie base with the other festive spices for a holiday treat everyone can enjoy.
What if I don’t have certain spices on hand?
No worries! If you’re missing German Lebkuchen spice mix, you can mix equal parts ground nutmeg, ginger, and allspice to create a lovely aromatic substitute. This will help maintain the warm, festive flavors that make these cookies so special!
Delicious German Christmas Cookie Recipe with Hazelnut Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking sheets by lining them with parchment paper.
- Combine the water, sugar, honey, and mixed candied citrus peel in a large mixing bowl. Mix until the sugar dissolves.
- Stir in the toasted, ground hazelnuts, flour, cocoa powder, lemon zest, German Lebkuchen spice mix, cinnamon, salt, baking soda, and baking powder.
- Add the milk and egg to the mixture, and combine until the dough is smooth and well-blended.
- Scoop the dough onto your prepared baking sheets, shaping them into desired forms.
- Bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until the edges are crisp and the tops are set.
- Prepare the glaze by mixing the icing sugar, cocoa powder, lemon juice, and a touch of water until smooth.
- Drizzle or spread the glaze on the cooled cookies.