Fragrant Pinecone cookies

Ingredients

Dough

100 grams (3.5 ounces) sugar

80 milliliters (1/3 cup) boiling water

150 grams (5.3 ounces) honey

100 grams (3.5 ounces) butter

3 yolks (3 large egg yolks)

425 grams (15 ounces) flour

2 grams (0.07 ounces) baking soda

2 grams (0.07 ounces) salt

15 grams (0.53 ounces) spice mix

Glaze

100 grams (3.5 ounces) sugar

40 grams (1.4 ounces) water

Instructions

Step 1

Step 1: The most important thing about these cookies is the flavor! So first of all, prepare a spice blend. Grind together star anise (5%), cloves (5%), cardamom (10%), coriander (35%), cinnamon (30%), nutmeg (10%), and allspice (5%). You can mix these to your preference or buy a ready-made blend. Ensure even grinding and mixing for a consistent flavor.

Step 2

Step 2: Put the sugar in a saucepan with a thick bottom and place it over low heat. Once it dissolves, gently pour in the boiling water. Add the spices, honey, butter, and salt one by one. Heat for about 5 minutes, stirring continuously until the mixture becomes homogeneous. Remove from the stove and cool to about 122°F (50°C). Stir constantly to avoid sticking and burning.

Step 3

Step 3: Add the egg yolks to the honey mixture and stir to combine. Sift in the flour and baking soda, then knead the dough by hand or using a stand mixer. Wrap the dough in cling film and leave it in the fridge for a few hours. Chilling the dough helps in easier handling and better flavor development.

Step 4

Step 4: Form the cookies using a mold and place them in the fridge for several hours to set. Refrigerating the formed cookies ensures they maintain their shape during baking.

Step 5

Step 5: Preheat the oven to 482°F (250°C), bake the cookies for 4-5 minutes. Then lower the temperature to 338°F (170°C). Open the oven door for a brief time, then bake until tender, depending on the size and shape of the cookies (about 5-15 minutes). Be careful not to overbake; keep an eye on the cookies as oven temperatures can vary.

Step 6

Step 6: Mix the water with the sugar and bring to a boil. Once the sugar has dissolved, cook for 1 minute on low heat. Spread the glaze on the hot cookies. Apply the glaze while the cookies are warm for a nice sheen and flavor.

Servings

Immerse yourself in the joy of serving these delightful cookies in a few creative ways. 🌟 For a Festive Treat, serve the cookies neatly arranged on a decorative platter, with a few sprigs of fresh rosemary for a touch of green. Consider pairing them with a warm spiced tea for an extra hint of coziness. Family Movie Night gets a sweet upgrade when you prepare a cookie platter with different shapes and fun designs. Serve with hot chocolate or milkshakes, and watch the smiles spread. As a Fancy Dessert, place two cookies together with a layer of ice cream or whipped cream in between for a luxurious sandwich. Roll the edges in some crushed nuts or chocolate chips to wow your guests! Whichever way you choose, these cookies are sure to bring a smile and a "wow" at first bite. 🌟🍪✨

Equipment

Saucepan

Use a thick-bottomed saucepan to evenly dissolve the sugar without burning it.

Spice Grinder

For the freshest flavor, grind your spices just before use. A coffee grinder can work in a pinch!

Mixing Bowl

A large mixing bowl will help you mix ingredients without making a mess.

Standing Mixer

This can save your arms from the effort of kneading dough.

Clingfilm

Essential for wrapping the dough to prevent it from drying out in the fridge.

Cookie Mold

Ensures uniform cookies, making them look professional.

Variations

Ready to make it gluten-free or vegan? 🌱 Here are your go-to modifications: Gluten-Free: Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour mix. Look for a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum to help the cookies hold together. Vegan: Swap the butter for a plant-based margarine and use flaxseed meal mixed with water as an egg yolk substitute (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one yolk). And of course, use honey alternatives like maple syrup or agave nectar. These tweaks ensure everyone, including your gluten-free and vegan friends, can enjoy these tasty treats! 🌟

Faq

How do I ensure the cookies are uniform?
Use a cookie mold for consistent shapes and sizes. This helps with even baking too.
Why do I need to preheat the oven to such a high temperature initially?
This step helps set the cookie shape quickly, preventing them from spreading too much.
Can I use pre-ground spices instead of grinding my own?
Yes, you can! However, freshly ground spices will give a more intense flavor.
Why is the dough refrigerated before baking?
Chilling the dough helps the cookies hold their shape and enhances the flavors.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! The dough can be refrigerated for up to 48 hours or frozen for up to a month.
How do I store the baked cookies?
Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week or in the freezer for up to three months.