Discover how to make Basler Läckerli, a traditional Swiss treat from Basel. These delightful spiced gingerbread cookies are known for their chewy texture and aromatic blend of honey, almonds, and Kirsch. Perfect for holiday baking or any special occasion, follow our step-by-step recipe to create these authentic Swiss cookies in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

- 250 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour

- 250 g (1 ¼ cups) honey

- 200 g (1 cup) granulated sugar

- 200 g (1 ¼ cups) almonds, finely chopped

- 100 g (¾ cup) candied orange peel, finely chopped

- 100 g (¾ cup) candied lemon peel, finely chopped

- 2 tsp ground cinnamon

- 1 tsp ground cloves

- 1 tsp ground cardamom

- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

- 1/4 cup Kirsch (Swiss cherry brandy)

- 1 egg white, lightly beaten for glazing

Instructions:

Preheat Oven:

  Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare Dough:

  In a medium saucepan, combine honey and sugar. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Mix Dry Ingredients:

  In a large bowl, mix the flour, ground spices (cinnamon, cloves, cardamom, nutmeg), and chopped almonds.

Combine Ingredients:

  Pour the honey-sugar mixture into the flour mixture and mix well. Stir in the candied orange and lemon peel. Finally, add the Kirsch and mix until a thick dough forms.

Roll and Cut:

  Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it to about 1/4 inch (6 mm) thickness. Cut into small squares or rectangles.

Glaze and Bake:

  Place the cut cookies on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each cookie with the beaten egg white. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown and firm.

Cool:

  Let the cookies cool completely on a wire rack. Once cool, store in an airtight container.

Enjoy your Basler Läckerli with a hot cup of tea or coffee, and savor a taste of Swiss tradition!

Nutritional values

All-Purpose Flour (250g, 2 cups)

- Calories: 364

- Protein: 10g

- Fat: 1g

- Carbohydrates: 76g

- Fiber: 2.7g

Benefits:

- Provides carbohydrates, which are a primary source of energy.

- Contains some protein and iron.

- Used as a base for many recipes, providing structure and texture.

Honey (250g, 1 ¼ cups)

- Calories: 304

- Protein: 0.3g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 82g

- Fiber: 0.2g

Benefits:

- Natural sweetener with potential antioxidants.

- Contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals.

- May have soothing properties for the throat.

Granulated Sugar (200g, 1 cup)

- Calories: 387

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 100g

Benefits:

- Provides a quick source of energy.

- Used primarily for sweetness and texture in baking.

Almonds (200g, 1 ¼ cups), finely chopped

- Calories: 579

- Protein: 21g

- Fat: 49g

- Carbohydrates: 22g

- Fiber: 12g

Benefits:

- High in healthy fats, protein, and fiber, which support heart health and satiety.

- Rich in Vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage.

- Contains magnesium, which supports muscle and nerve function.

Candied Orange Peel (100g, ¾ cup), finely chopped

- Calories: 330

- Protein: 0.8g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 80g

- Fiber: 7g

Benefits:

- Adds flavor and a touch of sweetness to baked goods.

- Provides some dietary fiber and vitamin C, although the amount may be lessened during the candying process.

Candied Lemon Peel (100g, ¾ cup), finely chopped

- Calories: 330

- Protein: 0.8g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 80g

- Fiber: 7g

Benefits:

- Similar to candied orange peel, it adds flavor and sweetness.

- Provides some fiber and vitamin C, though the nutrient content may be reduced during candying.

Ground Cinnamon (2 tsp)

- Calories: 6

- Protein: 0.1g

- Fat: 0.03g

- Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits:

- Contains antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties.

- May help regulate blood sugar levels and improve digestion.

Ground Cloves (1 tsp)

- Calories: 6

- Protein: 0.1g

- Fat: 0.3g

- Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

- Rich in antioxidants and may have antimicrobial properties.

- Can aid in digestion and support oral health.

Ground Cardamom (1 tsp)

- Calories: 6

- Protein: 0.1g

- Fat: 0.3g

- Carbohydrates: 1.3g

Benefits:

- Contains antioxidants and may have digestive benefits.

- Can support respiratory health and improve circulation.

Ground Nutmeg (1/4 tsp)

- Calories: 3

- Protein: 0.1g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 0.6g

Benefits:

- Contains antioxidants and may aid in digestion.

- Can have calming effects and support mental health.

Kirsch (Swiss Cherry Brandy) (1/4 cup, 60ml)

- Calories: 280

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

- Adds flavor and a slight sweetness to dishes.

- Contains trace amounts of antioxidants from cherries.

Egg White (1, lightly beaten for glazing)

- Calories: 17

- Protein: 4g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

- Provides protein without added fat or cholesterol.

- Used in baking for its binding properties and for creating a glossy finish.