Gingerbread - classic recipe
Gingerbread - Classic Recipe, Full of Flavors and Tradition
It is said that gingerbread has deep roots in history, being one of the most beloved seasonal treats. Its story begins around the end of the first millennium, when an Armenian monk named Grigore Macarie, living in France, discovered the magical combination of sweet honey and aromatic spices, with a special emphasis on ginger. Over time, gingerbread gained popularity and spread around the world, becoming a symbol of winter holidays.
Cook this gingerbread recipe to bring a touch of nostalgia and warmth into your home, especially now that the holidays are approaching. It is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 30 cookies
Ingredients for the dough:
- 480 g flour
- 190 g powdered sugar
- 50 g butter (80% fat), at room temperature
- 1 egg (or 2 quail eggs for a milder taste)
- 125 g water
- 1 pinch of baking soda
- 1 pinch of salt (pink salt for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 teaspoon star anise powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
Ingredients for the glaze:
- 1 egg white
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons hot water
Step by step: Preparing the gingerbread
1. Preparing the syrup: In a small saucepan, add a tablespoon of sugar and caramelize it over medium heat until it turns golden. Carefully extinguish it with the 125 g of water. You will obtain a sweet and aromatic syrup, perfect for your gingerbread.
2. Mixing the ingredients: Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the remaining powdered sugar along with the spices (ginger, star anise, cinnamon). Mix well, then add 150 g of the prepared flour. Stir until the mixture becomes uniform.
3. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, combine the remaining flour (330 g), baking soda, and salt. Then pour in the mixture from the saucepan, add the egg (or quail eggs), and the butter. Knead everything until you obtain an elastic and easy-to-shape dough. It is recommended to knead the dough on a lightly floured surface to avoid sticking.
4. Shaping the cookies: From the obtained dough, form approximately 30 balls of about 40 g each. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving enough space between them as they will rise during baking. Gently press each ball to flatten it.
5. Baking: Preheat the oven to 170 degrees Celsius. Bake the cookies for 15 minutes, but remember to watch them, as the baking time may vary depending on the oven. When they turn golden, they are ready!
6. Preparing the glaze: Meanwhile, whip the egg white until frothy. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuously mixing. Finally, incorporate the two tablespoons of hot water to obtain a shiny glaze.
7. Glazing the cookies: After the cookies have cooled slightly, place them in a covered bowl. Pour the glaze over them, then close the lid and gently shake the bowl to evenly coat the cookies. Then place them on a rack to allow the glaze to dry.
Serving and delicious combinations
These cookies are wonderful alongside a cup of hot milk or aromatic coffee. They can also be served as a sweet snack during winter evenings with friends or family. If you enjoy intense flavors, feel free to adjust the spice quantities to your taste!
Tips and variations
- You can also add other spices, such as cloves or nutmeg, to customize the flavor of the gingerbread.
- If you want a softer texture, slightly reduce the baking time.
- Experiment with various shapes: cut the dough into festive shapes using different cookie cutters.
Nutritional information and calories
This gingerbread recipe contains approximately 120 calories per piece, depending on the ingredients used. Whole flour and spices bring nutritional benefits such as fiber and antioxidants, and ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use honey instead of sugar?
- Yes, honey can be used, but it will change the texture and taste of the gingerbread.
2. How can I store the cookies?
- Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain their freshness.
3. Can I freeze the gingerbread?
- Yes, the cookies can be frozen. Make sure they are completely cooled and use an airtight container.
Whether you enjoy them around the Christmas tree or gift them to loved ones, these sweet cookies are a symbol of warmth and joy during the holidays. Happy cooking and have a wonderful holiday season!
Ingredients: Ingredients for the dough: 480 g flour, 190 g powdered sugar, 50 g butter (80% fat), one egg, 125 g water, a pinch of baking soda, a pinch of salt (I used pink salt), one teaspoon of ginger powder, one teaspoon of star anise powder, one teaspoon of cinnamon powder. Ingredients for the glaze: the egg white of one egg, 100 g sugar, two tablespoons of hot water.
