Chewy Aachener Printen Squares

Name: Chewy Aachener Printen Squares
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 16 squares
Ingredients: 250g honey; 150g brown sugar; 500g all-purpose flour; 100g ground almonds; 1 tsp baking powder; 1 tbsp cocoa powder; 1 tbsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp ground cloves; 1 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/2 tsp salt; 200g mixed candied peel, finely chopped; 100g dark chocolate, chopped; 100g dark chocolate, melted; Chopped nuts for garnish

Highlighted under: International Recipes

Delight in the rich, spiced flavors of these Chewy Aachener Printen Squares, a festive treat perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-03T17:51:27.555Z

These Chewy Aachener Printen Squares are inspired by the traditional German gingerbread cookies known as Printen. Originating from Aachen, these squares are soft, chewy, and packed with a blend of aromatic spices that make them a favorite during the holiday season.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, spiced flavor with a hint of sweetness
Chewy texture that satisfies every bite
Perfect for gifting or enjoying with a cup of tea

      

The Essence of Aachener Printen

Aachener Printen are traditional German gingerbread cookies that originated in the city of Aachen. Known for their unique blend of spices and rich honey flavor, these squares capture the essence of this festive treat in a chewy, easy-to-bake format. The combination of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg brings warmth and comfort, making these squares a delightful addition to any holiday spread or gathering.

These Chewy Aachener Printen Squares not only embody the classic flavors of the traditional recipe but also offer a modern twist with the addition of dark chocolate and candied peel. The chocolate enhances the sweetness while the candied peel provides a zesty contrast, creating a delightful balance that makes each bite irresistible.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re celebrating the holidays, hosting a tea party, or looking for a unique gift, these Chewy Aachener Printen Squares are an ideal choice. Their chewy texture and rich flavor profile are sure to impress your guests, making them a standout item on any dessert table. Plus, they are easy to slice and serve, making them convenient for sharing.

Gifting these squares is a thoughtful way to spread joy during festive seasons. Pack them in a decorative box or jar, and you have a charming homemade gift that shows you care. The appealing look and aromatic scent of these squares will entice anyone who receives them, making them a perfect way to brighten someone's day.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect texture in your Chewy Aachener Printen Squares, ensure that your honey and brown sugar mixture is not too hot when combining with the dry ingredients. Allow it to cool slightly to prevent the flour from cooking prematurely, which could lead to a dry final product. Mixing just until combined helps maintain that desirable chewiness.

When spreading the dough in the baking dish, use a spatula to smooth it out evenly. This ensures that all squares bake uniformly and have a consistent texture. Remember to let the squares cool completely before cutting; this will make slicing easier and help maintain their shape.

Ingredients

For the Printen Squares

250g honey
150g brown sugar
500g all-purpose flour
100g ground almonds
1 tsp baking powder
1 tbsp cocoa powder
1 tbsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp ground cloves
1 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp salt
200g mixed candied peel, finely chopped
100g dark chocolate, chopped

For the Topping

100g dark chocolate, melted
Chopped nuts for garnish

Combine all ingredients thoroughly for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a saucepan, combine honey and brown sugar. Heat gently until the sugar is dissolved. Let it cool slightly.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, mix together the flour, ground almonds, baking powder, cocoa powder, spices, and salt.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually pour the honey mixture into the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Fold in the candied peel and dark chocolate.

Shape and Bake

Spread the dough into a lined baking dish and smooth it out. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 25 minutes. Let it cool before slicing into squares.

Add Topping

Once cooled, drizzle the melted dark chocolate over the squares and sprinkle with chopped nuts. Allow to set before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Chewy Aachener Printen Squares with a cup of tea or coffee!

Storing Your Printen Squares

To keep your Chewy Aachener Printen Squares fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature. They can last for up to a week, retaining their chewy texture and flavor. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be enjoyed later by simply thawing at room temperature.

Be sure to label your container with the date you made them. This way, you can keep track of their freshness. If you notice them getting a bit hard, a slice of bread placed in the container can help restore moisture and softness.

Customizing Your Squares

Feel free to customize these squares to suit your taste. You can experiment with different spices, such as adding ginger for an extra kick or cardamom for a unique flavor twist. Additionally, try incorporating other mix-ins like dried fruits, nuts, or even a splash of your favorite liqueur for a more adult version.

For a festive touch, consider topping your squares with a sprinkle of edible glitter or colored sprinkles during the chocolate drizzle phase. This not only enhances their visual appeal but also makes them perfect for special occasions or celebrations.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use honey substitutes?

Yes, you can use agave syrup or maple syrup as alternatives, but the flavor will vary.

→ How should I store these squares?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the Printen Squares?

Yes, they freeze well. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag.

→ What can I serve with Chewy Aachener Printen Squares?

They pair wonderfully with a hot beverage like tea or coffee, or you can serve them with ice cream.