These nostalgic Windmill Cookies are crisp, buttery, and filled with the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. Traditionally stamped with a windmill design, these Dutch-inspired spiced cookies are perfect with a cup of coffee or tea and make wonderful holiday treats any time of year.

Ingredients

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 large egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons milk (if needed)

Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and cardamom.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Add the egg and vanilla extract and beat until fully combined.
4. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until a soft dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add the milk one tablespoon at a time.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
7. Roll the dough to about ¼-inch (6 mm) thickness on a lightly floured surface.
8. Cut into rectangles or use traditional windmill cookie molds or stamps if available.
9. Arrange the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between them.
10. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the edges are lightly golden.
11. Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Cinnamon Sugar Topping

Mix together:

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

Lightly sprinkle over the cookies before baking for extra sweetness and a beautiful finish.

Tips

• Chilling the dough helps the cookies keep their shape.
• For a richer flavor, let the dough rest overnight before baking.
• Store the cookies in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
• These cookies freeze well for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy these classic Windmill Cookies with hot coffee, tea, or a glass of milk. Their crisp texture and warm spice blend make them perfect for holidays, afternoon snacks, or whenever you’re craving a taste of old-fashioned comfort. The longer they sit in an airtight container, the deeper and richer the spice flavor becomes, making them even more delicious the next day.