Belarusian Prianiki are honey-spice cookies known for their soft, chewy texture and aromatic flavor. Made with cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and honey, they are especially popular during the holiday season.
Prianiki are a traditional Eastern European treat with origins in ancient Slavic customs. Initially made for special occasions and holidays, these cookies symbolize hospitality and celebrate the region’s use of honey as a primary sweetener. Over time, they have become a cherished part of festive traditions in Belarus and Russia.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground cloves
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 2 large eggs
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, cream together honey, sugar, and butter until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
5. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a smooth dough forms.
6. Cover dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
7. Shape dough into small balls and place on the prepared baking sheet, flattening slightly.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cookies are golden brown.
9. Let cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Dust cooled cookies with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes:
- Adjust spices according to your taste preferences. Add extra cinnamon for a stronger flavor if desired.
- Molasses can be substituted for honey if necessary.
- The dough may be sticky initially but will firm up after chilling.
- Store cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for best freshness.
Nutrition Value:
1. 2 cups all-purpose flour
- Calories: 912
- Carbohydrates: 192 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Fat: 2 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: B vitamins (niacin, thiamine, riboflavin)
- Minerals: Iron, calcium, potassium
- Nutritional Benefit: Provides essential carbohydrates and some protein; contributes to energy and supports overall health.
2. 1 tsp baking soda
- Calories: 0
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 1,259 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: Sodium
- Nutritional Benefit: Acts as a leavening agent, aiding in the rise and texture of baked goods.
3. 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Protein: 0.1 g
- Fat: 0.03 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin K
- Minerals: Calcium, iron, manganese
- Nutritional Benefit: Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties; supports metabolism.
4. 1 tsp ground cloves
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 1.5 g
- Protein: 0.3 g
- Fat: 0.3 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin K, Vitamin C
- Minerals: Calcium, magnesium, manganese
- Nutritional Benefit: Provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits; supports digestive health.
5. 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- Calories: 6
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Protein: 0.1 g
- Fat: 0.3 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin C
- Minerals: Calcium, magnesium, manganese
- Nutritional Benefit: Contains antioxidants and supports digestive health; may enhance brain function.
6. 1/2 cup honey
- Calories: 515
- Carbohydrates: 139 g
- Protein: 0.4 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 4 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: Small amounts of B vitamins
- Minerals: Calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium
- Nutritional Benefit: Natural sweetener with antibacterial properties; provides energy and essential minerals.
7. 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- Calories: 387
- Carbohydrates: 100 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional Benefit: Provides energy; primarily used for sweetness.
8. 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- Calories: 810
- Carbohydrates: 0 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Fat: 92 g
- Sodium: 2 mg
- Cholesterol: 205 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin D
- Minerals: Calcium
- Nutritional Benefit: Adds richness and flavor; provides essential fatty acids and vitamins.
9. 2 large eggs
- Calories: 144
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Sodium: 140 mg
- Cholesterol: 372 mg
- Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12
- Minerals: Iron, phosphorus, selenium
- Nutritional Benefit: High-quality protein source; provides essential vitamins and minerals for overall health.
10. Powdered sugar for dusting (1 tbsp)
- Calories: 30
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
- Vitamins: None
- Minerals: None
- Nutritional Benefit: Mainly used for decorative purposes; adds minimal additional nutrition.
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