Chocolate-Kissed Polish Pierniczki: A Gingerbread Delight

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Polish Pierniczki are tender, honey-sweetened gingerbread cookies with just the right balance of spice. Traditionally enjoyed during the holiday season, these aromatic treats are perfect anytime you crave comforting warmth and a touch of chocolate indulgence.

Image 1
Ideogram

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup honey
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • ½ cup dark or semisweet chocolate chips (optional glaze)
Image 2
Ideogram

Instructions

Begin by warming your honey, brown sugar, and butter together in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir gently until the sugar dissolves, forming a smooth, fragrant mixture. Set it aside to cool until it’s just warm to the touch.

Image 3
Ideogram

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, and salt. Create a well in the center and add your cooled honey mixture and the egg. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a rough dough forms. If it feels too sticky, add a touch more flour.

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and gently knead it until smooth. Roll it out to about ¼-inch thickness. Use your favorite cookie cutters—heart, circle, or star shapes—to cut the dough. Carefully place the cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the cookies are pillowy and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely on a wire rack. If you’d like a chocolatey finish, melt the chocolate chips and drizzle over the top of the cookies.

These Chocolate-Kissed Polish Pierniczki are wonderfully soft and spiced, making them the perfect treat for both holiday gatherings and everyday indulgences. They’re a treat for anyone who loves a cozy, aromatic cookie—plus, the recipe can be adapted by swapping out spices or glazing with royal icing instead of chocolate. Whether you need a festive centerpiece or a sweet snacking option, these pierniczki bring warmth, nostalgia, and an irresistible touch of sweetness to any occasion.

Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.