Pryaniki Russian Honey Cookies (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Cookies
01 -
1/2 cup instant coffee
02 -
1/2 cup hot water
03 -
1 cup butter
04 -
1 cup granulated sugar
05 -
1 1/2 cups honey
06 -
1-2 teaspoons vanilla extract
07 -
1/2 teaspoon allspice
08 -
1/4 teaspoon grated nutmeg
09 -
1/2 teaspoon anise (ground or liquid extract)
10 -
2 eggs
11 -
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda dissolved in 1 teaspoon white vinegar
12 -
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
13 -
6 cups all-purpose flour
→ Glaze
14 -
4 1/2 cups powdered sugar
15 -
1/2 cup milk
# Instructions:
01 -
In a medium saucepan, dissolve the instant coffee in the hot water.
02 -
Add butter, granulated sugar, and honey to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves. Transfer to a large bowl and cool for 10-15 minutes.
03 -
Mix in vanilla extract, allspice, nutmeg, and anise. Whisk in the eggs, baking soda dissolved in vinegar, and baking powder until fully combined.
04 -
Gradually add the all-purpose flour, mixing with a wooden spoon until a uniform dough forms.
05 -
Cover the dough with plastic wrap or a towel and rest at room temperature for at least 4 hours or overnight.
06 -
Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Portion the dough into 1-tablespoon balls, roll them in your hands, and place on the baking sheet with room to expand.
07 -
Bake the cookies for 20-25 minutes. Avoid overbaking to prevent the cookies from becoming too hard.
08 -
In a bowl, mix powdered sugar and milk until smooth. Optionally add an extract such as vanilla for extra flavor.
09 -
Dip cooled cookies into the glaze, letting excess drip off. Allow the glaze to dry before optionally glazing the other side.
10 -
Store the cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage.
# Notes:
01 -
The cookie dough is thick and may strain weaker electric mixers unless the recipe is halved.
02 -
Pryaniki are traditionally made in large quantities for gift-giving and special occasions.
03 -
These cookies can freeze well for several months in airtight containers.