Basler Läckerli
Traditional Swiss spiced biscuits originating from Basel. These hard, sweet cookies are flavored with honey, cinnamon, cloves, and citrus zest, and are often coated in a simple sugar glaze.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g All-purpose flour
- 150 g Honey
- 100 g Granulated sugar
- 50 g Butter(unsalted)
- 2 tbsp Water
- 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 0.5 tsp Ground cloves
- 1 tsp Lemon zest
- 1 tsp Orange zest
- 50 g Almonds(blanched, finely chopped (optional))
- 100 g Powdered sugar(for glaze)
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice(for glaze)
👨‍🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a saucepan, combine honey, granulated sugar, butter, and water. Heat gently over low heat, stirring until the sugar and butter are dissolved. Do not boil.
⏱️ 5 minutes - 2
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cinnamon, cloves, lemon zest, and orange zest. If using, add the chopped almonds.
đź’ˇ Tip: Ensure spices are evenly distributed. - 3
Pour the warm honey mixture into the dry ingredients. Mix with a wooden spoon until a stiff dough forms.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 4
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead briefly until smooth. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until firm.
⏱️ 1 hour💡 Tip: Chilling the dough makes it easier to handle. - 5
Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
đź’ˇ Tip: Ensure even heat distribution in the oven. - 6
Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thickness. Cut into small squares or rectangles (about 3x4 cm).
đź’ˇ Tip: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter for clean cuts. - 7
Place the cut Läckerli onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving some space between them. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden brown around the edges.
⏱️ 20 minutes💡 Tip: Watch closely to prevent over-baking, as they can burn easily. - 8
While the Läckerli are still warm, prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth. Brush the glaze over the warm biscuits.
⏱️ 2 minutes - 9
Let the Läckerli cool completely on a wire rack before storing in an airtight container.
đź’ˇ Tip: They will harden further as they cool.
đź’ˇ Pro Tips
- âś“The dough can be quite sticky; chilling it is essential.
- âś“Adjust the spice levels to your preference.
- ✓Basler Läckerli are meant to be hard; do not overbake them trying to make them soft.
🔄 Variations
- Add a splash of Kirschwasser to the glaze for an adult version.
- Use different nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts.
- For a softer cookie, reduce baking time slightly.