Gingerbread men with cocoa
12 servings
170 minutes
Gingerbread men with cocoa are a fragrant treat that originated in European culinary tradition and became a symbol of coziness and celebration. The history of gingerbread dates back to the Middle Ages when spices and honey were used to create sweet delicacies. In this version, the addition of cocoa gives the dough a rich chocolate hue, creating a harmony of flavors with spicy notes of cinnamon, clove, and ginger. The gingerbread is baked to a crispy crust and then decorated with royal icing that adds contrast and makes them particularly festive. They are served with tea or hot chocolate, enjoying the rich aroma and warm taste that evoke memories of childhood and winter evenings by the fireplace. These gingerbread figures are not just a dessert but a true work of art filled with history and flavor.
1
Heat honey, sugar, butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the sugar dissolves. The mixture should not boil, just warm up. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Honey: 250 g
- Sugar: 100 g
- Butter: 150 g
- Spice mix for gingerbread: 1 teaspoon
2
Mix flour and baking powder with honey mixture, vanilla, clove, ginger, egg, and cocoa. Knead a smooth dough, roll into a ball, wrap in film and refrigerate for 1.5–2 hours.
- Wheat flour: 550 g
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- Honey: 250 g
- Cocoa powder: 25 g
- Chicken egg: 1 piece
3
Take out portions from the fridge, roll out and cut shapes using a paper template or mold. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 180 degrees for 15-20 minutes. Let cool.
- Wheat flour: 550 g
4
Whip the egg whites until frothy, adding powdered sugar while whipping. When the mixture becomes thick and creamy, pour in lemon juice. You can add food coloring to part of the glaze. Decorate the gingerbread.
- Egg white: 1 piece
- Powdered sugar: 250 g
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons