Honey Cookies

Estonian · Dessert · Easy

Honey Cookies

Total
30 min
Prep
15 min
Serves
5
Calories
140
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Earthy rye and honey bake into small, firm-edged cookies with chewy centers. Three pantry ingredients make a modestly sweet companion for tea.

With no butter or leavening, Honey Cookies have a compact, chewy bite rather than a crumbly shortbread texture. The honey softens the rye flavor and helps the small rounds brown at their edges.

Use finely milled rye flour and measure it lightly into the cup. A brief rest lets the flour absorb the water before shaping; flatten the portions evenly so the centers bake through without hardening the rims.

Method

  1. Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment. Stir the honey into the warm water until dissolved.

  2. Mix in the rye flour to make a thick, sticky dough. Rest for to hydrate, then knead briefly in the bowl until the dough holds together.

  3. Divide into 15 small portions with two teaspoons. With damp fingers, flatten each portion to about 1/4 inch thick on the lined pan.

  4. Bake for until the edges are lightly browned and the centers look dry. Transfer to a rack and cool before eating; each serving is three cookies.

Forkue tips

  • Wet your fingertips instead of adding extra flour when shaping; excess flour makes these lean cookies tough.

Storing and reheating

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They become firmer as they sit; warm briefly in a low oven to soften the centers.

Kitchen gear

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Nutrition per serving, estimated

140Calories
3gProtein
31gCarbs
1gFat

Honey Cookies: FAQ

Should these spread like butter cookies?

No. There is no added fat or raising agent, so they largely keep the shape you give them. Flatten each round before baking.

Can I replace the rye with all-purpose flour?

Rye gives these cookies their characteristic flavor and absorbs water differently. Use a cookie formula written for wheat flour for a predictable texture.

How do I store and reheat Honey Cookies?

Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. They become firmer as they sit; warm briefly in a low oven to soften the centers.

How long does Honey Cookies take?

About 30 min in total: 15 min prep and 15 min cooking.

What do I need to make Honey Cookies?

The key ingredients are honey and rye flour, plus pantry basics.

Any tips for Honey Cookies?

Wet your fingertips instead of adding extra flour when shaping; excess flour makes these lean cookies tough.