Description
Mom’s Pryaniki with Mint Glaze is a traditional Russian spiced cookie recipe featuring tender and sweet gingerbread-like cookies topped with a refreshing mint-flavored glaze. These soft, aromatic cookies are perfect for holiday gatherings or anytime you crave a cozy, comforting treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cookie Dough
- 2 large egg yolks (reserve whites for frosting)
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 lb 2 cups sour cream
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 5 cups all-purpose flour (or 4 1/2 cups if using Canadian flour), plus more for hands
Mint Glaze
- 2 large egg whites
- 2 cups powdered sugar (confectioners sugar)
- 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Other
- Parchment paper to line cookie sheets
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the 2 large egg yolks with 2 cups sugar until well blended. Add 1 lb 2 cups sour cream and mix thoroughly. In a small bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon baking soda in 1/2 teaspoon white vinegar and add it to the mixture along with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Gradually incorporate 5 cups all-purpose flour (adjust to 4 1/2 cups if using Canadian flour), blending until a soft dough forms. If necessary, use extra flour on your hands to prevent sticking.
- Shape the Cookies: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line cookie sheets with parchment paper. Take portions of dough and roll into balls about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Place the dough balls on the cookie sheets, spaced evenly apart to allow spreading during baking.
- Bake the Cookies: Bake the cookies in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until golden and set. Remove from the oven and let the cookies cool completely on wire racks before glazing.
- Prepare the Mint Glaze: In a clean bowl, whisk together 2 large egg whites until frothy. Gradually sift in 2 cups powdered sugar, continuing to whisk until a thick, glossy frosting forms. Stir in 1 teaspoon pure peppermint extract and 1 teaspoon lemon juice to flavor the glaze.
- Glaze the Cookies: Using a spoon or pastry brush, generously coat the cooled cookies with the mint glaze. Allow the glaze to set completely at room temperature, forming a shiny, minty crust over each cookie.
Notes
- Egg whites in the glaze should be fresh and handled carefully to avoid contamination.
- Adjust flour quantity slightly to achieve a soft yet manageable dough consistency.
- Cookies are best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week.
- For a stronger mint flavor, add more peppermint extract to the glaze, adjusting to taste.
- Let glaze dry fully before stacking cookies to prevent sticking.