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German Christmas recipesSpringerle

The -le diminutive ending reveals the Swabian origin of these cookies. The dough rises substantially during baking, hence the name Springerle, meaning "little jumpers". The cookies are either formed using a special rolling pin with forms and scenes carved into it or they are baked in artistically carved wooden forms, giving the cookies their signature imprints. The cookies keep for a long time and they mellow with age.

Ingredients

4 eggs
4 drops anise oil
2 tablespoons butter
4 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups white sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup anise seed

Preparation

Beat eggs in large bowl until light. Add in anise oil and mix. Cream in sugar and butter until mixture is light and fluffy. Add dry ingredients and combine. Knead dough until smooth, adding more flour if needed. Cover dough and allow to chill in refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Roll chilled dough on a lightly floured board until 1/4 inch thick. Then form designs using a Springerle rolling pin or use the Springerle wooden molds. Cut forms into separate cookies, place on a cookie sheet, and allow them to stand overnight, uncovered in a cool, dry place.

Bake the cookies at 350° F for 15 to 20 minutes, being careful not to let the cookies become browned. Cool completely and store in an airtight container for at least 1 week before eating to allow the anise flavor to mellow.

Cookies and cooking utensils

Springerle cookies and rolling pins

Lemon Bee Springerle Tin of 6 Springerle cookies with honeybee theme. More info - Buy	Wedgewood-inspired Springerle Tin of 6 Springerle cookies hand-decorated in wedgewood blue and white. More info - Buy	Pottery Cookie Stamp Set Set of three 2.25-inch cookie stamps in bear, maple leaf, and daisy designs. More info - Buy
Bethany 10-inch wooden Springerle rolling pin. Simple block design includes 20 patterns. More info - Buy	10-inch wooden Springerle rolling pin. 20 patterns. Qualifies for free shipping. More info - Buy	Book: Baker's Field Guide to Christmas Cookies Includes recipes for springerle and other German cookies. More info - Buy