Ammonia Cookies(German Christmas Cookies)
Ammonia cookies are traditional German Christmas treats with a delicate, crisp texture and subtle peppermint flavor. Made with a unique leavening agent, they are light, sweet, and perfect for holiday baking. These cookies appeal to those who enjoy festive, aromatic confections with a nostalgic twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the eggs, sugar, lard or shortening, sour cream, vanilla, and peppermint extract until well blended.
- Combine flour, baking powder, soda, and powdered ammonia; then mix into the egg mixture.
- Chill the dough for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Roll out the dough and cut with cookie cutters.
- Place the cookies on cookie sheets and bake at 350°F for 10 to 12 minutes until light brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half of the lard or shortening with unsalted butter. If you're out of peppermint extract, vanilla or almond extract can work in a pinch. To prevent sticking while rolling out the dough, dust your surface with flour or use parchment paper. Make sure to chill the dough as instructed; this step is crucial for the cookies to hold their shape while baking.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies are delightful on their own but pair beautifully with a warm cup of spiced tea or hot chocolate. For festive gatherings, consider serving them alongside other holiday treats like Maggie'S Strawberry Jello Cake or Coconut Raisin Pie for a well-rounded dessert table. They also make great gifts when wrapped in decorative packaging.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ammonia cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring they stay soft and chewy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ammonia Cookies(German Christmas Cookies) contains roughly 4761 calories, with 5g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 501g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (63% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 562mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fat instead of lard or shortening?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter as a substitute for lard or shortening. It will add a richer flavor to the cookies. However, keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, becoming a bit softer. If you prefer a dairy-free option, vegetable shortening is a good alternative.
What do I do if my dough is too sticky?
If your dough is too sticky to roll out, try adding a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a workable consistency. It's important to avoid adding too much flour initially, as this can make the cookies tough. Chilling the dough longer can also help firm it up.
Are ammonia cookies safe to eat?
Yes, ammonia cookies are safe to eat. The powdered ammonia used in this recipe acts as a leavening agent, and it evaporates during baking, leaving no harmful residue. Just ensure to bake the cookies thoroughly, as this will also help eliminate any residual ammonia flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).