In the realm of sweet delights, Pepparkakor, also known as Swedish Gingerbread Cookies, stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of tradition and taste. Originating from Sweden, these cookies have captivated hearts and palates across the globe with their distinctive flavors and intricate designs. Pepparkakor are a staple of the holiday season, particularly around Christmas and Lucia celebrations, yet their allure extends far beyond these festive occasions.
With a warm, inviting aroma that fills the air, Pepparkakor exudes a symphony of spices, including ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom, while the subtle sweetness of honey and molasses adds a touch of comforting warmth. Their crisp texture yields to a satisfying crunch, giving way to a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumb that bursts with a harmonious balance of sweet and savory notes. This article presents a collection of carefully curated Pepparkakor recipes, each offering a unique take on this classic Swedish treat. From traditional star-shaped cookies adorned with intricate designs, to delightfully chewy gingerbread men, and even a gluten-free variation, there's a Pepparkakor recipe here to suit every taste and dietary preference.
GRANDMA'S PEPPARKAKOR ~ SWEDISH SPICE COOKIES
This is a family favorite! Grandma always had plenty of cookies for Thanksgiving and Christmas. She was known for her Pepparkakor and Spritz. I'm the only one that has carried on the tradition. My brothers in-law only get these little gems when I make them!
Provided by Debbie Sue
Categories Cookies
Time 5m
Number Of Ingredients 9
Steps:
- 1. GRANDMA'S DIRECTIONS Sift flour with soda and spices. Cream butter and sugar, add syrup and egg. Add dry ingredients. Mix until well blended. (form dough into a ball) Roll out thin, about 1/16 of an inch, on floured board, and cut into shapes. Bake at 400 degrees for about 5 minutes.
- 2. THIS IS WHAT WORKS FOR ME After the dough is formed into a ball, divide into 4 smaller balls, wrap in plastic wrap and chill for about 30 minutes or so. I also roll the dough between 2 pieces of parchment paper. Cut into shapes, pop the sheet into the freezer for a couple of minutes. It makes it easy to remove the cut outs from the parchment.
- 3. **** Not stated in Grandma's directions, YOU KEEP ROLLING ALL YOUR TRIMMINGS, UNTIL ALL THE DOUGH IS GONE! It's a labor of love!
TRADITIONAL PEPPARKAKOR (SWEDISH SPICE COOKIES)
Traditional Swedish spice cookie; traditionally served on St. Lucia Day (Dec. 13). These are my sisters favorite cookie.:) (Note: you need to mix up the dough a day in advance, cover and let rest overnight). Cardamom & finely chopped candied ginger would make nice additions to these Pepparkakor. The molasses is an essential ingredient in this recipe, you get crispy yet chewy cookies with a lovely rich subtle depth of flavor. Don't skip!
Provided by BecR2400
Categories Dessert
Time 55m
Yield 3 1/2 dozen cookies, 42 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Sift together dry ingredients; set aside.
- Cream sugar and butter.
- Add egg and molasses.
- Blend in dry ingredients thoroughly. Let dough stand overnight for easy rolling.
- On a well-floured board, roll out dough to 1/8 inch thickness.
- Cut into shapes (we usually make gingerbread people) and bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes.
- NOTE: Prep time does not include time to let dough rest overnight.
PEPPARKAKOR - TRADITIONAL SCANDINAVIAN SUGAR AND SPICE COOKIES
Great for Christmas or anytime of year- especially with coffee or cocoa AND they are lowfat too! If you like them spicier feel free to UP the ginger and/or use FRESH! World Tour 2005 Sweden Desserts
Provided by Mamas Kitchen Hope
Categories Dessert
Time 1h
Yield 60 cookies, 60 serving(s)
Number Of Ingredients 10
Steps:
- Cream butter and sugar.
- Add eggs and molasses and beat well.
- Mix all dry ingredients in separate bowl.
- Add dry mix to wet 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition to make a stiff dough.
- Roll dough into teaspoon size balls and roll in more granulated sugar.
- Bake on greased baking sheet at 350 for 8-10 minutes.
Nutrition Facts : Calories 87.6, Fat 2.6, SaturatedFat 1.5, Cholesterol 12.3, Sodium 85.4, Carbohydrate 15.3, Fiber 0.3, Sugar 8.2, Protein 1.1
Tips:
- Use unsalted butter at room temperature to ensure that the cookies spread properly.
- Make sure to chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling and cutting. This will help the cookies to hold their shape in the oven.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the cookies. This will give you clean edges and prevent the cookies from becoming ragged.
- Bake the cookies on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. This will help to prevent the cookies from sticking to the pan.
- Let the cookies cool completely on the baking sheet before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Conclusion:
Pepparkakor are a delicious and traditional Swedish cookie that is perfect for the holiday season. They are easy to make and can be decorated in a variety of ways. Whether you are making them for a special occasion or just for a snack, these cookies are sure to be a hit.
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