Name: Gingerbread (German Spice Cookies)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 2.25 cups all-purpose flour; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 0.5 teaspoon ground cloves; 0.5 teaspoon allspice; 0.5 teaspoon nutmeg; 0.25 teaspoon salt; 0.75 cup honey; 0.5 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg; 0.25 cup chopped almonds or hazelnuts; 0.25 cup chopped candied orange or lemon peel; 1 cup powdered sugar; 2-3 tablespoons water or lemon juice

Jump to Recipe

There’s something magical about the warm, spicy aroma of freshly baked cookies filling the kitchen, especially when it’s a batch of Gingerbread (German Spice Cookies). These classic cookies are tender, fragrant, and just the right amount of sweet—perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons at home. Did you know that traditional German gingerbread has been a festive treat since the Middle Ages, once considered a luxurious gift for royalty? The blend of spices not only delights the taste buds but also makes your house smell incredible. What I love most about these cookies is how quickly they come together, making them an ideal recipe for busy families or a spontaneous weekend bake. If you enjoyed our Chewy Chocolate Crinkle Cookies, you’re sure to fall in love with this spiced cousin! Let’s dive in and bake up some holiday cheer.

What is Gingerbread (German Spice Cookies)?

Ever wonder why these cookies are called “Gingerbread (German Spice Cookies)” when they could just as easily be dubbed “Little Bites of Happiness”? The answer goes way back—these cookies get their name from the unique blend of warming spices, especially ginger, which brings a cozy zing to every bite. Of course, leave it to clever German bakers to add candied peel and crunchy nuts for an extra festive twist—talk about going the extra mile! As the saying goes, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and these cookies are living proof. Ready to find out why everyone loves them? Bake a batch and see for yourself!

Why You’ll Love This

There are so many reasons to fall for these Gingerbread (German Spice Cookies). First, the showstopper is the tantalizing blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice, creating a flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Secondly, making them at home means you get scrumptious treats at a fraction of bakery prices—plus, you can tweak the add-ins like candied peel or nuts to suit your own taste. Third, the delicate glaze sets these cookies apart, finishing them with a subtle sweetness and beautiful shine. If you liked my homemade Snickerdoodles, you’ll love how these cookies deliver layers of flavor with every bite. So, why not treat yourself and your family to a homemade batch today?

How to Make

Quick Overview

You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up these Gingerbread (German Spice Cookies). All you need are a few pantry staples, a handful of fragrant spices, and a little mixing and shaping. In less than an hour—including the baking time—you can turn out a beautiful batch of cookies with a soft, slightly chewy texture and that iconic spice-forward taste. The prep is simple and straightforward, making this a great project for bakers of all skill levels.

Ingredients

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1/2 teaspoon allspice

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup honey

1/2 cup brown sugar

1 large egg

1/4 cup chopped almonds or hazelnuts

1/4 cup chopped candied orange or lemon peel

1 cup powdered sugar

2-3 tablespoons water or lemon juice

Step-by-Step

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or nonstick mats.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate bowl, combine the honey and brown sugar. Warm gently in the microwave or over a pot of simmering water until the mixture is smooth and slightly runny.
Pour the warm honey mixture into the dry ingredients and stir to combine.
Add the egg, and mix until a soft dough forms.
Fold in the chopped almonds or hazelnuts and the candied orange or lemon peel.
Roll small spoonfuls of dough into balls, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter, and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheets. Gently flatten the tops with your fingers or a glass.
Bake for 10-12 minutes, until the cookies are lightly golden and slightly firm around the edges. Do not overbake—they should remain soft in the center.
While cookies bake, prepare the glaze: whisk the powdered sugar with enough water or lemon juice to make a smooth, pourable icing.
Allow cookies to cool for 5 minutes, then brush or drizzle with the glaze. Let the glaze set before serving.

What to Serve With

These cookies shine on their own but become even more delightful with the right accompaniments. Serve them alongside a mug of hot chocolate, spiced tea, or your favorite coffee for a cozy treat. They also pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. For a true German holiday experience, enjoy them with warm mulled wine. The gently spicy, sweet flavors of the cookies complement a wide range of beverages and desserts—perfect for entertaining or a relaxed afternoon snack.

Top Tips for Perfecting

For the best flavor, use freshly ground spices—your cookies will be noticeably more aromatic.
Don’t overbake! Pulled from the oven when just golden, these cookies stay perfectly chewy.
Experiment with mix-ins: try pistachios instead of almonds, or swap the candied peel for dried cranberries.
If the dough is sticky, chill it for 20-30 minutes to make it easier to handle.
For a glossy, even glaze, use a pastry brush and apply while the cookies are still slightly warm.
Gluten-free? Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a just-as-delicious result!

Storing and Reheating Tips

These Gingerbread (German Spice Cookies) store beautifully, making them ideal for gifting or preparing in advance. Place fully cooled cookies in an airtight container at room temperature—they’ll stay fresh for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze cookies (glazed or unglazed) in single layers between sheets of parchment paper; they’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months. To enjoy later, let frozen cookies thaw at room temperature for an hour, or gently warm them in a low oven (about 300°F/150°C) for a few minutes for that fresh-baked taste. If the glaze looks dull after freezing, a light brush of honey can revive the shine.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough up to two days in advance. Wrap it well and keep it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Can I omit the nuts or candied peel?
Of course. The cookies are still delicious without them—feel free to personalize the recipe with your favorite add-ins or leave them out for a classic gingerbread.

What if I don’t have honey—can I use another sweetener?
Yes, maple syrup or agave can be substituted, though the flavor will change slightly. Honey provides the best texture and traditional taste.

Why did my cookies turn out too hard?
Most likely, they were overbaked. Take them out when just golden; they continue setting as they cool.

Can I double the recipe for a big batch?
Absolutely. This dough doubles or even triples easily—just use a large mixing bowl and bake in batches.

Conclusion

Gingerbread (German Spice Cookies) are a festive classic for a reason—fragrant, simple to make, and unfailingly delicious. Whether you’re sharing them with family, giving them as homemade gifts, or enjoying a quiet moment with a hot drink, these cookies are sure to bring a smile. With easy steps and plenty of room for personal touches, this is the perfect recipe to add to your holiday baking line-up. Give them a try, and don’t forget to explore other treats on the blog for even more sweet inspiration. Happy baking!