These german syrup cookies are spiced with cinnamon and cloves, sweetened with golden syrup, and brightened by a touch of lemon zest. I first tasted them as a child at our German church in New Germany, KwaZulu-Natal, where they were lovingly baked and sold during the festive season. These crispy Christmas cookies were always called Syrupkuchen. Although the name translates to “syrup cake,” our it’s a crisp biscuit rather than a cake.
Although I’ve searched high and low, I haven’t found this exact recipe anywhere online. However, I do know that several Lutheran churches across KZN still bake these cookies today, which tells me it’s a cherished local tradition. So, if you’ve never heard of Syrupkuchen before, now’s your chance to discover something truly special.
In fact, my family loves these cookies so much, we don’t wait for Christmas, we bake them all year round. Over the years, friends and relatives have often asked me for the recipe.
Why You Will Love these German Syrup Cookies
- Versatile to Shape: You can cut these syrup biscuits into hearts, festive shapes, or even small gingerbread houses. No matter the design, they’re just as fun to make as they are to eat.
- Perfect for Gifting: These homemade Syrup cookies are always well received – they make a thoughtful and memorable gift during the holiday season.
- Surprisingly Easy to Make: While the flavour is rich and complex, the method is straightforward. Just set aside some time – they’re well worth the effort.
- Rare and Authentic: This Syrupkuchen recipe is impossible to find online, making it a truly special addition to your Christmas baking list.
- Great for Making Ahead: These Christmas cookies store beautifully, so you can bake them in advance and tick one thing off your festive to-do list early.
If you enjoy old-fashioned flavours and simple, reliable recipes, this one deserves a spot on your Christmas baking list. I hope you find as much joy baking (and nibbling!) them as I always do.
Lyle's Golden Syrup is a rich, golden-coloured syrup with a distinctive buttery and caramel‑like flavour, perfect for baking and cooking. This iconic British staple has been loved for over 100 years and adds a unique sweetness to your recipes.
German Syrup Cookies Recipe
Ingredients
- 250 g Butter 1 cup / 8.8 oz
- 133 g Sugar 2/3 cup / 4.7 oz
- 500 g Golden Syrup 1 1/2 cups / 17.6 oz
- Juice and Peel of 1 Lemon
- ½ teaspoon Cloves
- 2 teaspoons Cinnamon
- ⅓ teaspoon All Spice
- ⅓ teaspoon Mixed Spice
- ⅔ teaspoon Ginger
- 80 ml cold water 1/3 cup / 2.7 fl oz
- 1 ⅓ heaped teaspoons Bicarbonate of Soda
- 833 g Flour 6 1/2 cups / 29.4 oz
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 170°C (340°F).
- Line 2-3 baking trays with baking paper.
- In a large pot, melt the butter, sugar, and syrup together and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
- Using a lemon squeezer and grater, add the juice and peel of 1 lemon.
- Add all the spices and mix well.
- In a ⅓ cup of water, dissolve the bicarbonate of soda and stir. Add this to the mixture in the pot. The mixture will bubble up. Mix well.
- Add the flour and mix until combined.
- Allow the dough to rest in the fridge overnight.
- Using a rolling pin, roll out the cookie dough as thin as possible.
- Cut out shapes with a cookie cutter.
- Place on the prepared baking trays.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes, adjusting the time based on the thickness of the cookies. Remove the thinner cookies first if necessary and continue baking the thicker ones.
- Allow the cookies to cool on the trays. The cookies need to be crispy, if they are not hard they are not baked long enough. Check for crispness and return to the oven if needed for a few more minutes.
Trusted Baking Essentials for Your Syrup Cookies
When baking, it’s worth reaching for brands you can rely on. These tried-and-true kitchen staples will help you get the perfect bake every time.
- Dr. Oetker Bicarbonate of Soda – A trusted name in German kitchens, this quality raising agent gives your cookies just the right lift and texture.
- KitchenAid 10×15″ Nonstick Baking Tray – Even baking and easy release – this sturdy tray makes baking (and clean-up) a breeze.
- Wilton Christmas Tree Cookie Cutter – Cut the cookies into fun holiday shapes to add a cheerful touch.
Decorating These German Syrup Cookies
For a festive touch, start by using Christmas-shaped cookie cutters. Once baked, decorate them with icing and sprinkles to add extra fun and creativity – especially if you’re baking with children. After decorating, store the cookies in an airtight container to keep them fresh and crisp.
Frequently asked Questions about this German Syrup Cookies Recipe
Golden syrup is used to give Syrupkuchen its deep, rich flavour.
Definitely! Their long shelf life and festive flavour make them a lovely homemade Christmas gift.
Store them in an airtight tin or container at room temperature.
Yes! The dough is fun to roll and cut, and kids love decorating them if you add icing or sprinkles.
Cloves, Cinnamon, All Spice, Mixed Spice and Ginger
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I would love to hear from you
Please share your thoughts, experiences, and any variations you tried with this syrup cookies recipe.