Jan Hagles
Crispy, spiced cookies with almonds reminiscent of Dutch windmill treats, perfect for holiday gatherings or as a delightful snack with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and allspice in a medium bowl.
- Beat butter and dark brown sugar in a mixer bowl until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the egg and vanilla.
- Gradually beat in the flour mixture until blended.
- Stir in sliced almonds.
- Shape the dough into an 8 x 2 1/2 x 1 1/2-inch brick.
- Wrap in wax paper and refrigerate for 4 hours or overnight.
- Cut the brick into 1/8-inch slices.
- Bake on an ungreased cookie sheet at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of butter and margarine. If you want a nut-free version, you can substitute the sliced almonds with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. Make sure to chill the dough thoroughly before slicing to ensure clean edges. These cookies are great for gifting or enjoying with a cup of tea, similar to the texture of American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
These cookies can be served plain or drizzled with a light icing for added sweetness. They pair wonderfully with a cup of hot tea or coffee, making them an excellent treat for afternoon gatherings. You might also consider serving them alongside a dessert like Carrot Cake With Nut Icing for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Jan Hagles in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag, where they can last for up to three months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes to restore their crispness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Jan Hagles contains roughly 784 calories, with 15g protein, 134g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (42% of the Daily Value), iron (33% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2247mg per serving (98% 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 all-purpose gluten-free flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose gluten-free flour in this recipe. However, be sure to include a binding agent, such as xanthan gum, if your blend doesn't already contain it. This will help maintain the structure and texture of the cookies.
What can I use instead of dark brown sugar?
If you don't have dark brown sugar, you can use light brown sugar or granulated sugar with a tablespoon of molasses mixed in to achieve a similar flavor and moisture. This substitution will help maintain the cookie's richness.
Can I add chocolate chips to the dough?
Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can enhance the flavor and make the cookies even more indulgent. Just be sure to adjust the amount of sugar slightly if you're using sweetened chocolate chips to prevent the cookies from becoming too sweet.
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).