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
We recommend:

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

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.

Nutrition facts

Fragrant Pinecone cookies
Recipe Yield:24 cookies
Calories:50-70 calories per cookie
Calories (Min - Max):50 - 70
Total Fat:2g
Saturated Fat:1g
Protein:1g
Total Carbohydrate:10g
Total Sugars:5g