I’ve been very interested in Saint Hildegard of Bingen, a twelfth century nun who was definitely an amazing woman. She was an abbess, musical composer, writer of philosophy and natural science, particularly on the use of medicinal herbs, and much more. You can read more about here in my recent homily on her feast day here. She was also known to be a baker, and we have some of her recipes, the most famous of which is her “Cookies of Joy” which I made on Tuesday to celebrate her feast day. Many have asked for the recipe, so no better place to share it than here!
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Saint Hildegard of Bingen’s “Cookies of Joy”
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 24-36 cookies 1x
Description
“Cookies of Joy” recipe by Saint Hildegard of Bingen. Wonderful spice cookies made with whole grain spelt flour. Great with a cup of tea or coffee.
Ingredients
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, softened
3/4 cup sugar (granulated white or brown)
2 eggs
3 1/2 cup flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 teaspoons nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
Cream butter and sugar in mixer until light in color. Add eggs one at a time and combine thoroughly.
In a separate bowl, combine spelt flour, baking soda, and spices. Mix to combine.
Add flour mixture to butter mixture in mixer a little at a time and combine until a soft dough forms.
Turn dough out onto lightly floured surface and form a disk, then roll out to 1/4 inch thick. Cut with cookie cutter, biscuit cutter, or a drinking glass. Arrange on cookie sheet (ungreased) and bake in 350° oven for 12-15 minutes, or until lightly browned on top. Cool on rack.
Notes
These cookies are best enjoyed with a mid-day beverage of coffee or tea (I enjoyed mine with an iced cappuccino that I brewed). Saint Hildegard made these with spelt flour, which I sourced on Amazon, because she felt it was healthier for the body. She may have had a point, since spelt is whole grain.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: European
